Independent Lens Season 11 Episode 1 Herb and Dorothy

Herb and Dorothy Vogel were a seemingly ordinary couple living in New York City. Herb was a postal worker, and Dorothy, a librarian. However, their passion for art led them on a remarkable journey that would leave a lasting impact on the art world.

In Independent Lens season 11 episode 1, viewers are introduced to the Vogels and their unique collection of contemporary art. Over the course of several decades, Herb and Dorothy amassed an impressive collection of over 4,000 works from some of the most influential artists of the 20th century, all while living modestly and on a very limited budget.

The episode follows the Vogels throughout their daily routine, providing a glimpse into their unconventional lifestyle and their unwavering dedication to the art world. We see Herb and Dorothy visiting galleries, attending art shows, and meeting with artists who would later become a part of their collection.

As the episode progresses, viewers learn about the Vogels' early years and how they first became interested in contemporary art. It all started in the 1960s when the couple attended a lecture by artist Ad Reinhardt. They were so inspired by the talk that they decided to start collecting art themselves.

What sets the Vogels apart from other collectors is their unique approach. They didn't have a lot of money to spare, so they set strict rules about how much they could spend on a single work of art. The maximum amount was $1,000, and they never deviated from this rule. Despite their limited budget, the Vogels managed to acquire some of the most significant artworks of their time, including pieces by Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Mangold, and Claes Oldenburg.

The episode also explores the Vogels' relationship with the art world and how they became well-known figures in the scene. Artists were drawn to the Vogels because of their genuine love and appreciation for contemporary art. Many of the artists they supported early on went on to become some of the biggest names in the art world, and the Vogels' influence can still be seen today.

Viewers learn about the Vogels' generous donation of their collection to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The decision to give away their life's work was a difficult one but ultimately one they felt was necessary. Their donation has had a significant impact, opening up the world of contemporary art to a wider audience and inspiring others to make similar contributions.

Herb and Dorothy is a heartwarming and inspiring story of two people who followed their passion and made a significant impact in the art world. The episode is a tribute to their unique and unconventional approach to collecting art and shows viewers that anyone can make a difference if they are dedicated and passionate about their interests.