Catherine Zeta-Jones is stepping into the vibrant world of art collecting, a passion that beautifully aligns with her latest cinematic venture. The acclaimed actress, known for her roles in films such as “Ocean’s Twelve,” stars as an art consultant in the newly-released film “The Gallerist,” which made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival last month. In a recent conversation with People magazine, Zeta-Jones shared her evolving interest in art, revealing that her collection now includes notable pieces from acclaimed sculptors like Henry Moore and contemporary artist Marc Quinn.
A Growing Passion for Art
Originally hailing from Swansea, Zeta-Jones credits her current residence in New York City as a catalyst for her newfound enthusiasm for art. Living alongside her husband, fellow actor Michael Douglas, she finds herself surrounded by a culture of creativity and artistic discourse. “I spend more time with New York business people, Wall Street people, art people,” she remarked, contrasting her East Coast social circle with her previous experiences in Los Angeles.
Describing herself as “a bit of an eclectic collector,” Zeta-Jones has begun to immerse herself in New York’s thriving art scene. “I’ve kind of been dipping my toes in that world,” she expressed, indicating an eagerness to explore this domain further. Her husband, Douglas, has been supportive of her burgeoning interest; he gifted her a piece by Marc Quinn for their shared birthday, a testament to their connection through art.
Notable Works and Personal Connections
Zeta-Jones’ collection showcases a blend of classic and contemporary works. She proudly owns a sculpture by the revered Henry Moore, a gift from her father-in-law, which holds sentimental value. “I have a Henry Moore, which I’m very proud of that Kirk, my father-in-law, gave Michael and I for one of our joint birthdays,” she shared. This piece, alongside her other acquisitions, reflects her desire to curate a collection that resonates with her personal journey and experiences.
The actress’s art collecting journey is further enriched by her habit of sourcing unique pieces while travelling. “I always like to buy a little something from everywhere I go, just as a reminder,” Zeta-Jones noted, highlighting the emotional connections that art can forge across different cultures and locations.
A Contrast of Themes in “The Gallerist”
While Zeta-Jones indulges in the beauty and inspiration of art, her role in “The Gallerist” presents a stark contrast. The film, described as a comedy-thriller, plunges her character into a murky plot involving the sale of a dead body as a piece of artwork. This juxtaposition between her real-life passion for collecting art and the darker themes explored in her film is intriguing, adding depth to her performance and showcasing her versatility as an actress.
“The Gallerist” features an impressive ensemble cast, including Natalie Portman, Jenna Ortega, Charli XCX, and Zach Galifianakis, all of whom contribute to the film’s exploration of the art world’s often bizarre and surreal nature.
Why it Matters
Catherine Zeta-Jones’s venture into art collecting is more than just a hobby; it represents a significant personal transformation and an engagement with a world often reserved for the elite. As she navigates her new role in “The Gallerist,” her journey reflects a broader cultural dialogue about the accessibility of art and its ability to inspire. Zeta-Jones’s growing passion for art not only enriches her life but also serves as a reminder of the importance of creativity in our everyday existence. In an age where artistic expression can sometimes feel overshadowed, her commitment to collecting and celebrating art underscores its enduring value in society.
