Artful Giving

Tulane alum Dianne Neal donates iconic Ida Kohlmeyer painting to Newcomb Art Museum

Dianne Neal (G *72), a Tulane alumna with a deep connection to the city of New Orleans, has generously donated a significant painting to the Newcomb Art Museum. The artwork, “Synthesis 03,” is by Ida Kohlmeyer, who was not only a celebrated artist but also a fellow alumna. Neal’s time earning her master’s degree in history at Tulane was enriched not only by the stellar faculty but also by the vibrancy of the city of New Orleans. She lived first on St. Charles Avenue, then Prytania Street, and finally, she lived in an apartment in the French Quarter — the heart of the city’s historical district. “In New Orleans, history is all around you.”      

After graduating from Tulane, Neal’s career took a series of eclectic turns. She initially ventured into the creative worlds of modeling and makeup artistry within Nashville’s bustling music scene. In 1983, she pivoted, obtaining her law degree from Vanderbilt University. After years of legal practice, Neal now teaches law. But through it all, her New Orleans experience stayed with her, influencing her life in profound ways. For example, her first job as a makeup artist was for former Louisiana Governor Jimmie Davis, when he was re-recording “You Are My Sunshine.” 

“My life interacted with New Orleans in lots of ways,” Neal reflected. Throughout her life, Neal never lost touch with New Orleans. Her deep appreciation for its architecture, cuisine and culture continually drew her back. “To the extent that I had become a good cook, I credit New Orleans restaurants. “Neal’s decision to donate Kohlmeyer’s painting was profoundly influenced by her transformative years studying in New Orleans. “It’s almost as if my three years in New Orleans brought everything into sharp focus, as it has for me in all of these things,” she said, underscoring why it felt so appropriate to gift the painting to the city that had such a significant impact on her life. The process of making a donation was exceptionally smooth, thanks to the expertise of the Office of Gift Planning at Tulane. Neal was impressed by the depth of their knowledge and the comfort their guidance provided. “They’re just so well-informed,” she remarked, appreciating their ability to explain things clearly and supportively. “They gave me all of the information I needed and made it very pleasant for me.”