Texas is home to some of the most impressive art collections in the world. From modern American artists to ancient European antiquities, these collections are treasured by their owners and appreciated by art lovers worldwide.
One of the most notable Texas art collectors is Alice Walton, the daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Her collection, housed in the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, includes works from some of the most celebrated American artists including George Bellows, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe. One of the standout pieces in her collection is Jackson Pollock’s “Number 1, 1949,” which sold for a record-breaking $140 million in 2006.
Another prominent Texas art collector is Nancy Hamon, who passed away in 2011 but left behind an impressive collection that included works by Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Alberto Giacometti. One of the most notable pieces in her collection is a bronze sculpture by Giacometti titled “Walking Man,” which sold for over $104 million at auction in 2010.
Raymond and Patsy Nasher are also well-known art collectors in Texas, and their collection is housed in the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas, Texas. The collection includes works by some of the most celebrated modern sculptors including Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, and Alberto Giacometti. One of the standout pieces in their collection is a bronze sculpture by Rodin titled “The Kiss,” which depicts two lovers in a deep embrace.
The Menil Collection, located in Houston, Texas, is another notable Texas art collection. The collection was founded by John and Dominique de Menil, and houses works by some of the most celebrated artists of the 20th century including Mark Rothko, René Magritte, and Max Ernst. One of the standout pieces in their collection is a large-scale Rothko painting titled “Untitled (Black on Grey),” which is valued at over $70 million.
One of the most unique Texas art collections belongs to Dia and Timothy Dunn, who have collected vintage neon signs and advertisements for over 40 years. Their collection includes signs from some of the most iconic American brands including Coca-Cola, Texaco, and Chevrolet. Their extensive collection has been featured in numerous exhibitions across the country, and has become a beloved fixture of Americana culture.
Finally, the collection of Susan and Michael Dell includes works by some of the most prominent contemporary artists including Jeff Koons, Damien Hirst, and Takashi Murakami. One of the standout pieces in their collection is a sculpture by Koons titled “Balloon Dog (Orange),” which sold at auction for over $58 million in 2013.
In short, Texas is home to some of the most impressive art collectors in the world, and their collections reflect the breadth and depth of the art world. From classic European sculptures to contemporary American paintings, these collections inspire and awe audiences around the globe.