Herb and Dorothy Vogel

Megumi Sasaki's award winning documentary, "Herb and Dorothy" was a hit this weekend at the Reel Artists Film Festival in Toronto. Click on her name to see a trailer of the documentary.

A photo of the Vogels has been the inspirational screen-saver on my laptop for some time now. Theirs is a story of obsession and commitment, and proof that "you don't have to be a Rockefeller to collect art". He was a postal clerk. She was a librarian. With their modest means, the couple managed to build one of the most important contemporary art collections in history.

The Indianapolis Museum Of Art has been one of 50 institutions to receive works from the Vogel's collection:



Sasaki's comments on the making of her documentary:

"From the beginning, my intention was to make something other than a so-called "art film." I wanted to capture how these two ordinary people accomplished the extraordinary in the field of art collecting. The film is about the power of passion and love, and a celebration of life.

The story of Herb and Dorothy Vogel is unique not only because of their avant garde vision and discernment as collectors, but also their love and dedication. It is through their loving partnership that the viewer truly experiences this remarkable story.

The Vogels' message is also about access. Art is not limited to the elite few. You don't have to be wealthy or an art school graduate to enjoy art. If you are interested in collecting art, you don't have to follow trends or others' advice, just listen to your own voice. Trust your eyes and instinct. Simply take the time to look, look and look.

In today's world, where art is treated as another commodity and a work's investment value takes precedence over its artistic value, Herb and Dorothy offers us an important question: What is it to appreciate and collect art?

My fortunate encounter with these beautiful people has changed my view of, and appreciation for, art and life."