In Aspen, one of the premier art-viewing institutions might just be the private residence of collector Nancy Magoon. The 9,560 square feet of land is adorned, indoors and out, with everything from postmodern installations, to portraits of Magoon by Andy Warhol, to prehistoric pottery. Yet Magoon maintains that her best art is the expansive view of the Elk Mountains.
The collector, who also maintains an equally art-filled residence in New York, currently serves as a board member of the Aspen Art Museum. The institution just kicked off its ArtWeek programming with a slate of panels, concerts, and its annual ArtCrush gala taking place Aug. 2. During the busiest week on the mountain town's art calendar, Magoon caught up with CULTURED to share how she managed to build, and is still expanding, one of the most illustrious collections Stateside.
What do you think makes the Aspen art scene distinct? And, what are you looking forward to seeing this ArtWeek?
The Aspen art scene has great collectors. All different collections, no sheep, no followers, only leaders. I am looking forward to seeing everything. So much to learn and such great exposure!
Where does the story of your personal collection begin, and what was your biggest influence in fostering your passion for art?
Growing up in New York, I fell in love with going to museums that started my learning process. I was in New York during 9/11, and my first thought was to find solace in a museum. I spent the day at the Museum of Modern Art, and when I left I felt capable of dealing with it all.
How do you know an acquisition is right for you?
When my heart starts beating.
What is the first piece you ever bought?
It was a really bad velvet painting with two lovers entwined from the NYU street fair. I have no idea who the artist was.
Which artist are you currently most excited about and why?
This is a tough question. The last work I bought was by Paul Klee. I do not usually buy dead artists, but I did my thesis on his work and always wanted a work by him. [I’m particularly excited about] Nicholas Galanin, an Indigenous artist who just won a Guggenheim Fellowship.
What factors do you consider when expanding your collection?
I like artists who represent their generation and give me something to think about. I find it thought-provoking when an artist teaches me to look at the world in a different way.
What was the most challenging piece in your personal collection to acquire?
Glenn Ligon’s Stranger in the Village.
What are the must-see shows this August?
Mickalene Thomas’s Baldwin Gallery show and the works for sale in the Aspen Art Museum auction.
