For more than 30 years, Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner have devoted themselves to contemporary art, and through their passion and acumen have assembled an extraordinary collection. This handsomely illustrated volume is the first to document the collection of Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner, more than 850 artworks in all media that have been promised to the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, and the Centre Pompidou, Paris. Artists represented include Lee Friedlander, Robert Gober, Jeff Koons, Christopher Wool, Ryan Gander, and Bernadette Corporation, among others, and the works span from the 1950s to 2014.
Over 300 highlights illustrate the collectors commitment to acquiring works that challenge, excite, confound, and amuse. Essays offer context for understanding the importance of the works as a group and illuminate the art world milieus in which the collectors immersed themselves. The book also includes an engaging interview with the collectors, providing a personal perspective on contemporary art acquisition.
Distributed for the Whitney Museum of American Art
Exhibition Schedule:
Whitney Museum of American Art
(11/20/1503/06/16)
Centre Pompidou, Paris
06/16/1601/2017
Discover a landmark collection of contemporary art, meticulously assembled over three decades by Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner, in this beautifully illustrated volume, "Collected by Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner." This is not merely a catalog; it's a journey into the minds of two passionate collectors and their profound impact on the art world. This definitive book, published in conjunction with exhibitions at the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Centre Pompidou, Paris, offers unprecedented access to a promised gift of over 850 artworks to these institutions. Dive into a diverse range of media, spanning from the 1950s to 2014, showcasing the Wagner's discerning eye for works that challenge, excite, confound, and amuse. Explore iconic pieces and hidden gems from celebrated artists like Lee Friedlander (known for his groundbreaking street photography), Robert Gober (renowned for his unsettling sculptures), Jeff Koons (the master of pop art extravagance), Christopher Wool (famous for his text-based paintings), Ryan Gander (conceptual art at its finest) and Bernadette Corporation (art collective blurring the lines of fashion, film and art), and many others pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. "Collected by Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner" goes beyond simply showcasing the art; it provides invaluable context. Delve into insightful essays by leading art historians and critics, exploring the artistic milieus in which the Wagners immersed themselves. Gain a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the works, as well as the collectors' unique curatorial vision. The book also features an exclusive, engaging interview with Thea Westreich Wagner and Ethan Wagner themselves. Hear firsthand their motivations, philosophies, and personal anecdotes, offering a rare glimpse into the world of art acquisition and the relationships they forged with artists. Discover what drove their passion for contemporary art and how they built a collection that reflects not only their personal taste but also the evolution of art itself. This volume serves as both a stunning visual record and an invaluable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and collectors alike. It's a testament to the power of collecting and the enduring legacy of two individuals who dedicated their lives to supporting and championing contemporary art. The exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art, held from November 20, 2015, to March 6, 2016, and the Centre Pompidou exhibition running from June 16, 2016, to January 2017, garnered significant critical acclaim, solidifying the Wagner's place as influential figures in the art world. Their collection is considered a vital archive of the period, documenting key artistic movements and trends. This book allows you to bring a piece of that legacy home.