Retrospective in Red

For Kumkum

Sunday, March 7, 2010 The Renaissance Art Gallery opened its Retrospective of the life and work of Kumkum Majumdar in the newly re-named exhibition hall. The room will now be known as the Kumkum Majumdar Exhibition Hall. And all our future shows and exhibitions will be held there, as well as our fine art classes. In a fitting tribute to our late colleague, Kumkum’s husband unveiled the plaque naming the room for her.

Friends and family of the late artist gathered to view a collection of her work and remember her. The art community at large turned out in numbers to see a last showing of one of West Virginia’s most unique artists.

Most people know Kumkum for her wearable batik art, as well as her batik paintings, but many did not realize the flexibility of this artist. Featured in the gallery this month are some of her seldom seen oil paintings in a strong, abstract cubist style as well as her floral watercolors. Among the textiles shown is a beautiful sari. Even the media, who sees everything, was impressed with her work as well as versatility it shows.

While we were all happy to do it, there is certain sadness in all of the artists of The Renaissance Art Gallery; it is hard to say good-by to one of our founding members. And knowing this is her last show; there will be no more from a lovely and lively lady, breaks our collective heart.

Color complements

Color completion and exploration. What can any artist do with so limited a pallet? Now, is the time to find out! After Sunday’s meeting of the artists of The Renaissance Art Gallery, we are all set to launch the idea for the Annual Spring Fine Arts Exhibition. This is the third one already. This one is to be a real artistic challenge.

Each artist can choose any color and its complement. And with that create a work of art worth looking at. Something to make the eyes linger, to engage the senses, in other words, a real work of art. Subject is for the artist’s discretion, but make it good!

The prospectus for this show will be done by the end of the month.

March will be a time for reflection, and we will host the final showing of Kumkum Majumdar’s excellent work. Much of her batik will be on view as well as some of her last painting. Kumkum passed away in September, and we miss her greatly. We consider it an honor to host this show.