On Friday, Sept. 30, Webster University alum Kholood Eid hosted her Gallery Talk in the newly renovated Kooyumjian Gallery. Located on the second floor of Sverdrup Hall’s west wing, the newly remodeled gallery has made its opening.
“This new exhibition shows off photography and all its richness in ways that were not quite possible before,” Chancellor Beth Stroble said about the excitement around the gallery’s redevelopment.
“The May Gallery, as it was known, was more of an activity space in [the sense] that we exhibited the work in the hallway,” Eric Rothenbuhler, dean of Webster School of Communications, said.
Eid remembers her time at Webster University and her involvement in the former May Gallery.
“The May Gallery was more of a hallway – but as many artists will say, anytime you get to share your work, it’s exciting,” Eid said.
Now making waves of success in the New York Times, Huffington Post and other publications, Eid visits Webster’s campus as a successful creator. Her exhibit, “Narrative Portraits,” consists of a collection of photographs representing “stories of survival, people in love, those grasping with grief and the hope that comes through healing,” according to her artist statement.
“I strive to make sure that I do the person in the frame justice, portraying them in a way that incorporates passion and dignity,” Eid said.
Eid explains that she takes inspiration from late American street photographer Garry Winigrand.
“I want my pictures to raise more questions than answers,” Winigrand said in a quote that Eid now bases her work on.
“This gallery does an amazing job at showcasing the art rather than the space,” fellow alum Niki Tedoni said.
Tedoni’s family is behind the foundation that funded the Kooyumjian Gallery. Both Tedoni and her sibling attended Webster University, making this event even more special.
“This is my fathers foundation and fine arts education was the direction he gave us,” Tony Kooyumjian, Tedoni’s father, said.
This space will house many other successful individuals in the future, allowing Webster students to be inspired and inspire each other.
“Our new curriculum will prepare students for a lifetime of innovation and creativity, in effective, ethical, professional practice,” Rothenbuhler said.
For more information visit the gallery located on the second floor of Sverdrup Hall’s west wing, open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m., or email the gallery at kgallery@webster.edu.
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