A painting of famed scientist Albert Einstein has found a new home at the Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences and the Arts.
The painting by former Hot Springs resident Randy Groden once was a familiar sight at Mid-America Science Museum. When the museum was remodeled, it was returned to its previous owner.
The painting was stored in the owner’s garage when James Elmore of Hot Springs decided to purchase it and donate it to ASMSA. It is on loan to the school for one year and then will be officially gifted to ASMSA next year. Elmore said he thought ASMSA was the best place for the painting with its combination of math, science and the arts.
“I don’t know that there’d be a better home for it, “ Elmore said.
The painting now hangs on a wall in the lobby of the ASMSA administration building. The painting is roughly 4 feet by 6 feet with a large wooden frame around it.
“It’s nice that it has a proper place to be seen when people come in. It’s an inspiring painting. It has so much depth to it. [Einstein’s] name just evokes energy and awareness and expanded consciousness. It’s a thrill to look at. It can be inspiring to the students,” Elmore said.
Elmore said he became interested in ASMSA after attending the 2015 Community of Learning Luncheon at which Gov. Asa Hutchinson was the keynote speaker. He attended the Director’s Circle dinner in October at which he gave a donation toward the new Trustees’ Service Fellowship, which will provide a rising senior the opportunity to complete a service project for their hometown each year.
Vicki Hinz, director of institutional advancement at ASMSA, said Elmore’s latest gift is special.
“It is gratifying to have stewards like Jim Elmore continuing to invest his energy, passion and resources in realizing a vision of exceptional opportunities for many of our state's most promising young minds,” Hinz said. “ASMSA is the perfect place to display Randy Groden's Albert Einstein allowing our students, faculty and staff an opportunity to enjoy this beautiful masterpiece each and everyday.”
Groden has galleries for his works in Sante Fe, N.M.; Scottsdale, Ariz.; and New Orleans, according to his website at www.rgroden.com.