People have been collecting art since ancient times and keep collecting for several reasons. In this article, we are going to look at the most famous art collectors of all time, from the veritable roots of phenomenon till today!
Famous art collectors of the past
Among the representatives of the first collection, there are the names of truly illustrious characters! The history of collecting is incredibly rich in prominent personalities who have made a great contribution to the ongoing history of art.
Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney – The American Art Collections
Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney was an American sculptor and one of the most influential art collectors in history. She was responsible for the establishment of the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1931. Gertrude became a central figure in the elite of the American cultural landscape not only for her ability in the artistic analysis but also for her sculptural production. Daughter of the Vanderbilt family, she is among the female art patrons who made history.
The Cone Sisters – Modern French art collection
Claribel and Etta Cone created one of the finest galleries of French modern art in America in the early twentieth century. Daughters of Jewish immigrants, the two sisters began collecting works of art in 1898. If Etta preferred more canine artists, on the other hand, Claribel loved Cezanne’s avant-guarde.
Gertrude and Leo Stein Belle Époque
During the Belle Epoque period, the brothers Gertrude and Leo Stein distinguished themselves as true luminaries of the culture of the time. Their Paris home soon became one of the most popular lounges for Parisian intellectuals. Just in that place, the two brothers started an impressive art collection. Both had a notable understanding of art, and they would often buy pieces right out of the studios of avant-garde artists. Among others, they collected works by Renoir, Delacroix, Degas, Manet.
Famous collectors of today
There are several ways of collecting art. Fortunately, solutions can be found that satisfy the most varied tastes as well as the different budget needs. Among the best-known art collectors today there are some great showbiz stars such as:
Leonardo di Caprio
The contemporary movie star is a true fan of modern art. In particular, the actor co-hosted LACMA’s glittering Art + Film Gala. His collection brings together a large number of contemporary artists, with a remarkable focus on emerging ones. Among the actor’s most conspicuous art purchases is an unfinished painting by Takashi Murakami bought for $ 700,000.
Sean Combs
Not many are aware of it, but the world hip-hop star got into serious art collecting. In fact, he actually made the headlines when he brought his entire entourage with him into the Gagosian Gallery booth at Art Basel Miami in 2011.
David Geffen
David Geffen is an American record and film producer, founder of “Asylum Records” and “Geffen Records”. Regardless, he is also famous for his impressive art collection, which has been estimated to be worth as much as $ 1.1 billion. His collection includes works by Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko.
Steven Cohen
Successful investor, hedge fund manager, and philanthropist, Steven Cohen is among the world-famous art collectors. He started his art search in 2000. His collection is impressive and counts a large number of contemporary works from all over the world.