Celebrities collecting Art
Famous stars across the globe are now becoming the modern-day Medicis, patrons of the arts whose collections are as diverse as their own storied careers.
In the grand theatre of life, where the spotlight often shines brightest on the ephemeral glitz and glamour, exists a more enduring passion among the world’s most celebrated figures: art collecting.
From the classical masterpieces that whisper tales of bygone eras to the audacious strokes of modernity that challenge our perceptions, some of the most popular actors, singers, models and fashion stars have started to collect art.
USA
Leonardo DiCaprio
Residing in the sun-drenched hills of Los Angeles, his art collection is a testament to refined taste and environmental advocacy.
With a penchant for modern art, Leo‘s collection boasts works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Ed Ruscha, and Takashi Murakami.
His relationship with Christie’s is well- documented, often participating in high-profile auctions to acquire pieces that resonate with his vision of a sustainable future.
DiCaprio spent $9.7 million on a Basquiat painting, underscoring his commitment to collecting top art.
Jay-Z and Beyoncé
In the heart of New York City, the power couple has curated an art collection that mirrors cultural influence. It includes works by Damien Hirst, Richard Prince and Kara Walker.
The Carters are known to frequent prestigious art galleries and have a close relationship with the Brooklyn Museum, where they have donated and loaned pieces from their collection.
One of their most notable acquisitions is a $4.5 million Basquiat painting, reflecting their deep investment in contemporary art.
Europe Elton John
Sir Elton John the flamboyant British icon, resides in a stately home in Windsor. His collection, a dazzling array of modern and contemporary art, features works by David Hockney, Andy Warhol, and Keith Haring.
Elton’s relationship with Tate Modern and Sotheby’s is one of mutual admiration. He often lends pieces for exhibitions and participates in charity auctions.
His collection, valued at over $200 million, includes a Warhol purchased for $6.5 million.
Miuccia Prada
In the fashion capital of Milan, Fondazione Prada, a contemporary art and culture institution, stands as a beacon of arts commitment, hosting exhibitions that blur the lines between fashion and fine art.
Miuccia Prada‘s art collection is as avant-garde as her eponymous fashion label. It includes works by Anish Kapoor, Jeff Koons and Louise Bourgeois.
Prada‘s collection, valued at $150 million, includes a Jeff Koons sculpture worth $8 million.
Asia
Jack Ma
In the bustling metropolis of Hangzhou (China), the founder of Alibaba, has amassed art reflecting his eclectic taste.
It spans classical Chinese paintings to contemporary works by Zeng Fanzhi and Cai Guo-Qiang.
Jack’s relationship with China Academy of Art and Poly Auction House underscores his dedication to promoting Chinese art.
His collection, valued at $100 million, includes a Zeng Fanzhi painting purchased for $23 million.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
In the vibrant city of Mumbai (India), Bollywood actress makes choices that are a harmonious blend of classical Indian art with modern masterpieces. She owns works by Raja Ravi Varma, M.F. Husain and Anish Kapoor.
Aishwarya‘s involvement with Mumbai National Gallery of Modern Art highlights her role as cultural ambassador, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary art.
The Bachchan Collection, valued at $50 million, features a Husain painting acquired for $2 million.
Africa
El Anatsui
Though primarily known as an artist from Ghana, Anatsui’s Collection of African Art is a treasure trove of cultural heritage.
Residing in Nsukka, Nigeria, he gathers sculptures, textiles and contemporary works. His relationship with Ghana National Museum and Bonhams auctions in London reflect his commitment to elevating African art on the global stage.
Anatsui’s $30 million collection, includes a traditional African sculpture valued at $1 million.
Charlize Theron
The actress from South Africa, living in Los Angeles, has curated a collection that celebrates her African roots and. It features works by William Kentridge, Marlene Dumas and Irma Stern.
Charlize’s support for Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art in Cape Town underscores her dedication to promoting African culture.
Charlize Theron’s collection, valued at $25 million, includes a Kentridge acquired for $3 million.
Australia
Russell Crowe
The actor’s art choices are a reflection of his diverse interests. His purchases include works by Sidney Nolan, Brett Whiteley and contemporary Indigenous Australian artists.
Crowe’s relationship with the the Art Gallery of New South Wales and Leonard Joel Auctions in Melbourne highlights his role as a patron of Australian art.
Russell Crowe’s collection, valued at $20 million, features a Whiteley painting purchased for $2.5 million.
Nicole Kidman
Kidman’s art collection in Sydney, is a blend of classical and contemporary works. It features pieces by Arthur Streeton, John Olsen and Tracey Moffatt.
Her involvement with the National Gallery of Australia and Christie’s auctions in London underscores her commitment to the arts.
Kidman’s collection, valued at $18 million, includes an Olsen painting worth $1.8 million.
South America
Shakira
Living in Barcelona, the Colombian singer’s collection is a celebration of Latin American. It includes works by Fernando Botero, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
Her relationship with the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogota and Sotheby’s auctions in New York highlights her dedication to promoting Latin American art.
Some art pieces will be shown at the Latin Music Gallery in Los Angeles, until winter 2024.
Gisele Bündchen
In the sun-kissed shores of Costa Rica, the Brazilian supermodel’s art collection is a reflection of environmental advocacy and love for contemporary art. It features works by Vik Muniz, Beatriz Milhazes and Ernesto Neto.
Bündchen‘s support for the São Paulo Museum of Art and Phillips auctions in London underscores her commitment to the arts.
Conclusion
In this grand mosaic of celebrity art lovers, we find a tapestry woven with threads of cultural heritage, innovation and passion.
From sunlit studios in Los Angeles to historic galleries in Milan, famous stars are amassing collections of staggering value, becoming stewards of artistic legacy.
These celebrities relationships with museums, galleries and auction houses are a testament to their enduring commitment to the arts, ensuring that beauty and art continue to inspire generations to come.
