In Memoriam
Eiko Kamiya Moriyama
Nov 2, 1943 – Sep 16, 2020
The GHS Art Collection, Inc. (GHSAC) wishes to honor Eiko Kamiya Moriyama, an inspirational leader. Sadly, she passed away on September 16, 2020. She was the founding President and co-founder of the nonprofit organization, GHSAC, with the mission to protect, preserve, conserve, and exhibit the Gardena High School Art Collection for the inspirational and educational benefit of students and the public. Prior to co-founding GHSAC, Eiko and other dedicated alums had been working toward the preservation of the collection. Eiko was instrumental in bringing the group together to form the nonprofit organization. Over the years the GHSAC Board expanded its membership to include members of the art community. The GHSAC Board facilitated the restoration of most of the collection in anticipation of the 100th Anniversary Exhibit, GIFTED: Collecting the Art of California at Gardena High School, 1919-1956. The exhibit includes nearly the entire collection of over 70 paintings and is accompanied by a book which includes professional photographs and a detailed history of the entire collection.
Eiko was exceptionally generous with her time and resources throughout her life. She excelled at Gardena High School and graduated in 1961. Eiko later attended USC earning BS and MS degrees in Education. She spent her career working for the Los Angeles Unified School District and USC. She was a teacher, was promoted to LAUSD headquarters, and became Director of the Partnerships and Adopt-a-School Program. She retired in 2006 after 40 years of dedicated service.
The Gardena High School Art Collection Board is grateful for Eiko’s leadership, friendship, dedication, and joyful presence. Despite Eiko’s passing, the goals of GHSAC live on in her memory. The organization is currently seeking financial assistance with the conservation of The Santa Barbara Coast by Elmer Wachtel, a gift from the Winter class of 1926. This painting is exceptional in size and importance, and was severely damaged. It will be especially costly to restore.
If you would like to donate to the GHS Art Collection, please direct your contributions to: GHS Art Collection, P.O. Box 111, Gardena, CA 90248. You may also donate online by using the “Donate” button below.
Thank you for your attention and support.
Board of Directors
GHS Art Collection, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) nonprofits organization
Tax ID #: 37-1591566