Herbert Vogel (1922-2012) and Dorothy Vogel (1935-2013) were a remarkable couple known for amassing an extraordinary art collection while living modestly in New York City. Their story is a testament to their passion for art and their commitment to supporting emerging and underrepresented artists.
Early Life and Background
Herbert Vogel, a postal worker, and Dorothy Vogel, a librarian, were an unlikely couple to become legendary art collectors. They met in 1960 and quickly discovered their shared passion for art. While they did not have significant financial means, their love for art would lead them to create one of the most significant contemporary art collections in the United States.
The Birth of a Collection
The Vogels began their art collection journey with minimal resources, yet they had an unquenchable desire to acquire and support contemporary art. They began visiting galleries and artists' studios in New York City, where they focused on buying pieces from emerging and often unknown artists. What set the Vogels apart was not the value of the artworks they collected but rather the sheer quantity of art they accumulated.
Modest Living, Serious Collecting
The Vogels lived frugally in a small, one-bedroom apartment in New York City. They used Dorothy’s income as a librarian to cover their living expenses while using Herbert’s salary to fund their art acquisitions. They had no interest in owning extravagant homes, cars, or other luxury items. Instead, their passion was solely directed toward collecting art. Their modest lifestyle allowed them to allocate nearly all of their resources to building their collection.
How Herbert and Dorothy Vogel Supported Emerging Artists
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Vogels’ collecting philosophy was their dedication to supporting emerging and underrepresented artists. They often bought art directly from artists at affordable prices, enabling struggling artists to continue their work. The Vogels played a significant role in nurturing the careers of numerous artists who later gained recognition and success.
The 50x50 Collection
Over several decades, Herbert and Dorothy Vogel collected thousands of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and other forms of contemporary art. In 1992, they initiated the “Fifty Works for Fifty States” program, which saw them donate 2,500 artworks from their collection, one for each of the 50 states, to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. This generous act ensured that their art would be accessible to people throughout the United States.
Legacy and Impact
Herbert Vogel passed away in 2012, and Dorothy Vogel followed in 2013, leaving behind a substantial art collection and an enduring legacy. Their story became the subject of a documentary entitled Herb & Dorothy, directed by Megumi Sasaki, which further spread awareness of their extraordinary journey.
The Vogels’ dedication to art collecting has had a lasting impact on the art world. Their collection, known as the “Vogel 50x50 Collection,” continues to be an invaluable resource for art enthusiasts and scholars, and it has played a significant role in championing underrepresented artists.
Herbert and Dorothy Vogel’s story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and selflessness in the world of art collecting. Their modest lifestyle and unwavering commitment to emerging artists have left an indelible mark on the art community. The Vogels demonstrated that one does not need vast wealth to become influential art collectors; instead, it takes a deep love for art and a belief in the transformative power of creativity. Their legacy lives on, inspiring art collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
Comentarios