Summary: Mona Kumar, owner of J. Todd Gallery, is transforming the art world by challenging elitist norms and establishing genuine connections with artists and art enthusiasts.
The art world has a history of failing to address the elephant in the room—the elitist culture that continues to dictate the direction and value of art. It creates a barrier that separates those who are deemed worthy of contributing to the artistic discourse from those who aren’t. This statement begs the question: “Who or what decides this?”
Curators, critics, and established gallery owners wield significant influence in shaping trends and deciding what constitutes “worthy” of art. Emerging artists are usually sidelined as a result of this. Their works are dismissed or overlooked because they don’t fit within the narrow confines of what’s currently in vogue.
This gatekeeping culture continues to stifle creativity and innovation, allowing only a chosen few to flourish while many struggle to gain recognition. It also encourages the commodification of art, wherein art pieces are judged by their marketability and the status they impart to those who own or endorse them instead of their intrinsic value or the emotions they evoke.
Mona Kumar, the owner of J. Todd Gallery, is unafraid to call out the flaws in the system. She has made it her mission to dismantle this elitist culture and pave the way for a more inclusive and authentic appreciation of art. “Art should be accessible to all,” she emphasizes. “The value of art should be determined by the connection it creates with the people.” Her philosophy is straightforward, revolving around the belief that art, like beauty, lies in the eye of the beholder.
This refreshing perspective stems from her background. Mona was born in West Bengal, India—a region celebrated for its rich artistic heritage and contributions to cinema, literature, and the visual arts. It has produced some of the most influential figures in Indian art and culture, including Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray. In other words, Mona grew up in a vibrant environment with a culture that appreciates all art forms.
Even when Mona pursued a career in healthcare, a field that seems removed from the art world, she has remained involved in the arts. She participated in the art community, serving on the Executive Committee for Fundraising at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, Massachusetts, and becoming a patron at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Mona’s involvement in these organizations signifies her commitment to understanding the art world, shaping her vision of transforming it to embrace inclusivity and accessibility.
In 2015, Mona took ownership of J. Todd Gallery, a well-respected art gallery in Massachusetts. “I was doubtful at first. I questioned whether I made the right choice. But my philosophy has always been to move forward,” she shares. The passionate woman then set out to carry on with one of her first initiatives, which was to make the gallery a space where artists and art lovers could connect better. She organized events that introduced artists to the public, allowing clients to learn about the personal lives, inspirations, and creative processes of the people behind the masterpieces they purchase. This approach resonated with the gallery’s patrons, contributing to its success.
These efforts reflect her mission of eliminating the elitist culture that continues to exist in the art world. She stresses that art shouldn’t be reserved for those with deep pockets. Mona advocates for a more democratic approach, wherein people judge art by the connection it invokes rather than by the name of the artist or the price of the piece.
Further showcasing Mona’s unique approach is her decision to focus on expressing gratitude instead of pushing for sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Those were challenging times, but our clients didn’t stop supporting us,” she recalls. “Our newsletters were full of gratitude instead of marketing tactics.” This endeared the gallery’s patrons even more.
The owner’s impact extends outside the gallery’s walls. She ensured J. Todd Gallery served as a nurturing environment for artists where they could flourish. Mona sees herself as a mentor and advocate for the artists she represents instead of a mere art gallery owner. She’s invested in their personal and professional growth, going above and beyond to support them.
It’s worth noting that J. Todd Gallery treats its clients with the same care and respect. “The gallery sets itself apart through the relationships we build with clients. We don’t view them as just clients. They become friends. Our doors are always open—whether they’re only browsing, asking questions, or looking for a particular piece, we’re here for them. If they find something they love elsewhere, they can let us know—we’ll go the extra mile to secure it for them,” Mona remarks.
Mona Kumar’s commitment to making art accessible makes her a pivotal figure in challenging the traditional elitism of the art world. Her efforts to create a more inclusive, accessible, and genuine art experience leave a lasting impact on the artists she represents and the clients she serves.