Multimillionaire Grant Cardone, known for his real estate investments and motivational literature, has been amassing an art collection for approximately 15 years. Despite his substantial wealth, Cardone does not consider himself an art connoisseur. In fact, he describes himself as a spontaneous buyer, stating, “If I like it, I buy it. I don’t care who did it.” This approach is evident in his purchases, like a piece by American graffiti artist Retna that he acquired for around $140,000 in an online auction. Cardone’s collection features a mix of contemporary and established names, such as works by Burton Morris and Kenny Scharf. His art gallery is not just a showcase of his wealth, but a reflection of his personal taste and enjoyment.
In contrast to Cardone’s spontaneous approach, former investment banker Christian Levett takes a more thoughtful and deliberate stance when it comes to his art collection. With nearly 30 years of experience in collecting, Levett initially focused on old master paintings and antiquities before expanding into modern artworks. His collection, displayed throughout his home in Florence, Italy, is dedicated to female abstract expressionists, featuring pieces by renowned artists like Mary Cassatt and Dorothea Tanning. Levett’s commitment to sharing his collection with others is evident in the tours he conducts for students and art enthusiasts. His emphasis on female artists and upcoming museum dedicated to female artists is a testament to his passion for promoting diversity in the art world.
Christian and Karen Boros have taken their art collecting to a whole new level by living above their private collection in a 6,000 square foot penthouse apartment in Berlin. The couple’s unique exhibition space is housed in a former World War II bunker, which they acquired in 2003 and transformed into a multi-floor gallery. The bunker’s historical significance adds an extra layer of intrigue to their collection, which focuses on the human body and its interaction with technology. Christian’s early purchase of a spade by German artist Joseph Beuys set the stage for their unconventional journey as art collectors. The Boros Collection has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors, with a rotating display that challenges traditional notions of art and space.
The stories of Grant Cardone, Christian Levett, and Christian and Karen Boros illustrate the diverse approaches that high-profile individuals take when it comes to building their art collections. While Cardone’s spontaneous purchases reflect a more instinctual and immediate connection to art, Levett’s considered acquisitions showcase a deep appreciation for specific artists and movements. The Boros’ unconventional living arrangement above their art collection speaks to their commitment to creating an immersive and thought-provoking experience for visitors. Each collector brings a unique perspective and passion to the world of art, highlighting the multifaceted nature of art appreciation and curation. From spur-of-the-moment buys to meticulously curated exhibitions, these collectors demonstrate that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building a meaningful and significant art collection.