Source: HerbandDorothy.com

All too often we succumb to the notion that the landscape of contemporary art collecting is rife with contrivances, esotericism, unapproachability and insurmountable financial obstacles. Herb and Dorothy, the story of an ordinary couple and what has become one of the most important collections of contemporary American art in the world, defies all of those notions.

"Floor Structure Black" by Sol LeWitt. Source: nga.gov

The film, a first-time effort from rookie documentarian Megumi Sasaki, tells the story of Herb and Dorothy Vogel, a Manhattan couple whose approach to buying art borders on art itself. Herb, a postal worker, and Dorothy, a librarian, pursued art with what could be called an obsessive zeal, eventually amassing a collection of over 2,000 works in their tiny one-bedroom apartment.

Film still, Source: HerbandDorothy.com

Their approach to immersing themselves in art is disarmingly modest. Herb educated himself on the basic tenets of art history the old fashion way (reading books) and after a brief period of productive creativity of their own, the Vogels fell into collecting work naturally. Their purchasing habits are based upon two guiding principles: they dedicated Herb’s earnings to art and lived on Dorothy’s wages, so the work had to be affordable, and it had to fit in their home. As a result, they looked outside the mainstream, often forming relationships with young, emerging artists who would sell their pieces at realistic prices and then eventually go on to establish themselves as artist powerhouses.

"3rd Rope Piece" by Richard Tuttle. Source: pbs.org/art21

Perhaps the most moving thing about the Vogel’s collection is that they seem to invest according to their hearts. It almost sounds trite, but it is astounding and inspiring to watch two people pursue artistic beauty with zero pretense and such pure intentions.

Herb and Dorothy is available on Netflix and iTunes. For more information and schedule of upcoming screenings, visit the website for the film.

HERB & DOROTHY Trailer from Herb & Dorothy on Vimeo.