EGSC News

Neil Kalmanson, former East Georgia State College (EGSC) art professor, was recently honored by the Emanuel Artists Guild with an exhibit at the Student Gallery at the College. The exhibition included an artist talk and reception.

Conceived and curated by Guild member Mark Lillquist, the exhibit featured round canvases which Kalmanson has used in his recent paintings. “Different media and styles present an interesting show and reflect his approach to art,” according to Guild member Joan Martin Dunn.

One of the original professors in 1973, Kalmanson received his B.F.A. with honors from Pratt Institute in 1964 and his M.F.A. from the University of Florida in 1971. Still an active, working artist, he has exhibited in several states and Mexico. While at East Georgia College, he served as faculty advisor for the E.A.R.T.H. Club which focused on environmental issues.

Kalmanson also served as gallery director for the Emanuel Arts Council (EAC) for over 40 years, beginning with the first gallery in the Davis Building until the Gallery in the Arts Center closed. In December 2021, the EAC moved into its new home at 109 North Green Street next to the Karrh Community Arts Center. Named in his honor, the gallery hosts six art exhibits each year.

Also known for his interest in boomerangs, he developed the Kalmanson Reversible and the Siamese Reversible Boomerangs; and won several Aesthetic Awards in the United States Boomerang competitions. The Smithsonian Institution has several in their boomerang collection.

The Emanuel Artist Guild is an informal group that supports and encourages the arts in a nurturing environment. You can learn more by visiting Emanuel Artist Guild on Facebook.