The Art of the Steal (2009): Barnes Foundation Documentary
The Art of the Steal (2009)
Brief Review by Travis Simpkins
Directed by Don Argott, The Art of the Steal (2009) looked at the history of the Barnes Foundation in Merion, PA and it's controversial move to Philadelphia. The foundation was founded by Dr. Albert Barnes in 1922, who had amassed the world's greatest collection of Modern Art worth an estimated $25 Billion in today's money. The unparalleled Barnes Collection consists of 181 works by Renoir, 69 works by Cezanne, 59 works by Matisse, 46 works by Picasso, 21 by Soutine, 18 by Rousseau, 16 by Modigliani, 11 by Degas, 7 by Van Gogh, 6 by Seurat as well as Old Master works by El Greco, Reubens and others. The documentary presents it's case that the Barnes Foundation was mismanaged and driven to finical ruin in the decades after Dr. Barnes' death… and that corrupt politicians and organizations sought to move the collection (against Dr. Barnes' will) for personal benefit and spite. At the time of the making of this documentary, a final decision had not been made. Sadly, in 2012, the Barnes Collection was relocated despite adamant protest. Past directors, trustees, teachers, politicians and journalists provide insightful commentary in this fascinating film about one of America's greatest and most unique private collections.
