UCLA was constructing a Genetic Research Center. In an intricate web of philanthropy and progress, the university’s largest single donation to date was made by Leslie and Susan Gonda. Thus the financial foundation for this venture was secure. It was then that UCLA’s visionary Director of Development, Ms. Paula Golden, wanted to express their thanks in a somewhat personal way. She orchestrated my painting a portrait of them to be revealed at the center’s grand opening.
Imagine attending “The Gonda Celebration,” a huge outdoor reception where the guests had the best view from bleachers. All at once the resonance of the last steel beam being put into place echoed with a hearty applause. Then Cornell’s prominent figures—Chancellor Charles E. Young, Provost Gerald S. Levey, and Lt. Governor Gray Davis—led a collective toast. They marked not only a structural milestone but also a celebration of gratitude. In this social tapestry, Gerry and I felt like privileged witnesses.
We learned the vision for the Gondas’ building was for teams of scientists and doctors collaborating to conquer neurological and genetic diseases. They would gather global information, directing it here to formulate medical solutions that benefit all of humanity.
We also discovered a remarkable chapter in the Gondas’ history. Hailing from Germany during the tumultuous Nazi era, they adopted the name of a Catholic friend to escape persecution. Then they could get out of the country. Their journey led them to Venezuela, South America, where they established a thriving construction enterprise. Upon realizing the need for their growing family’s education, the Gondas made the significant move to the USA. Displaying their entrepreneurial prowess once again, they built another business empire, this time centered around cattle. Mr. Gonda later remarked to me “A lot of hungry cows.” As their family expanded, so did their ventures. When one of their sons embarked on a promising business, Mr. Gonda transitioned from livestock to airplanes for lease. Today, nestled in Beverly Hills, surrounded by their four children and numerous grandchildren, the Gondas express gratitude by giving back. Their philanthropy stems from a deep appreciation for the good fortune they’ve experienced in this country.
Then we were invited to come to their home. Mr. Gonda shared his art, particularly highlighting his bronze sculptures by Frederick Remington. Over tea, we delved into the topic of their oil portrait. They suggested using a seven-year-old photo as a reference, but Mr. Gonda now sported a mustache not shown in the picture. Gerry took photos that day for my references to incorporate the mustache into the painting. Additionally, their photograph showcased Mrs. Gonda’s lace and beaded jacket. To ensure no detail was overlooked, she entrusted the jacket to my studio for careful observation during the painting process.
After gathering all the above information, I began work on the portrait. I fully enjoyed bringing to life my own aesthetic versions of these worthwhile people. I completed it before the opening which allowed the Gondas and their children to provide input. The children admired their mother’s portrayal completely. Then they said their father’s looked just like him but I had taken out a few two many “character” lines in his face. Mrs. Gonda appreciated the depiction of her husband but requested the removal of minuscule ridges in his upper coat sleeve. According to her, wrinkles in his coat were non-negotiable for public appearances.
Next, the unveiling at the Gonda (Goldschmied) Neuroscience and Genetic Research Center at the UCLA Medical Center. The portrait debuted during an intimate candle-lit dinner for fifty, graced by notable figures like the Governor of California Elect’s wife and Michael Orvitz, Former CEO of Disney. They extended the invitation of speaking to me, warmly welcoming and appreciating my presence.
The next day, a public opening and dedication unfolded, complete with a 30-minute orchestral concert conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen. The concert featured one of his own creations, a musical heralding of a building destined for the future. The festivities continued with a tour, guiding visitors through the ground-floor gallery and conference room. This space now housed the celebrated portrait, an integral part of the Gonda (Goldschmied) Neuroscience and Genetic Research Center.
Tying up loose ends, the Director of Development conveyed a personal note from the Dean of the Medical School:
“On behalf of the UCLA community, I want to thank you once again for the magnificent portrait of Susan and Leslie Gonda. … How does an institution such as UCLA thank this unique couple for their generosity?… Your artistry spoke the words for us all, and will be enjoyed by visitors to the Gonda Center for many, many years to come.
“Gerald S. Levey, M.D.
“Provost, Medical Sciences”
But wait, a postscript unfolds. Several weeks later, Paula Golden called, inviting me and my paintbrushes to the new building. Upon arrival, Paula with Leslie Gonda greeted me. Leslie confessed his love for the picture but admitted a lingering concern: “My eyes are a little more hazel, I think,” said he.
“I can fix that,” said I. Ascending a ladder with burnt umber, olive green, and yellow ochre, I made three strategic dabs. The result: a radiant smile from this remarkable man’s face illuminated the room.
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