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John Vaughan '66 |
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"Panorama Gold Rock" is part of the collection on display in the Library. |
John Vaughan ’66 has donated an extensive Malaysian art collection to Randolph-Macon College. The collection is currently on display in the
McGraw-Page Library. Vaughan developed an interest in Malaysian art while living in Kuala Lumpur and working for Philip Morris.
“After moving to Kuala Lumpur, I began weekend visits to the National Gallery of Art and to local galleries,” says Vaughan. “I located one gallery, Art Salon, which represented Malaysian artists only and whose owners generously shared their knowledge. Through their encouragement, I met many artists and gained a deeper appreciation of their works of art and their lives.” Vaughan says that the process of collecting—researching, viewing, meeting artists—is extremely enjoyable and rewarding. “It is a great way to learn and experience other people, places and cultures.”
In 2010, Vaughan began thinking about a more permanent home for his Malaysian art. “Ideally, I wanted an academic setting where the art would be on view, be part of the art teaching program, and be enjoyed by students, faculty, staff and visitors,” he explains. “Randolph-Macon seemed a perfect fit for this purpose, and the result is that 29 paintings were selected and installed in the McGraw-Page Library. Not only will others now enjoy these paintings, but I also can come to campus and continue viewing them.”
“We are very fortunate to have received a gift such as this,” says Katie Shaw, curator of R-MC’s
Flippo Gallery. “John’s gift truly enhances the quality of our experience within our community.”
R-MC Professor of
Studio Arts Ray Berry is excited about the collection. “I think it is important to recognize that John is the best kind of collector: his acquisitions evolve out of an egoless approach to artists and styles and his enthusiasm for this special part of the world that he worked in for so many years and loved so much,” says Berry. “Each work was purchased out of a direct connection to Malaysia, its culture and people. John’s desire to donate them to the college is a further testament to his dedication to the ideals of a good liberal arts education and his wish that others be enriched by the beauty that he had the good fortune to discover.”
Each painting in the installment is unique and the collection covers a wide range of styles: figurative, abstract and expressionism. “I admire each painting and respect the artists’ talent, skill, inspiration and hard work in creating these paintings for us to enjoy,” says Vaughan. “Now when I am on campus and see these paintings, fond memories of Malaysian experiences and friends come alive again.”