Legendary Hollywood power player Michael Ovitz, who is 78 years old and still going strong, has generously donated a stunning sculpture by the talented artist Joel Shapiro to MOMA. This sculpture, known as ARK, stands nearly 12 feet tall and features a vibrant array of colors, making it a striking addition to the museum’s collection. What makes this donation even more fascinating is the surprising link between Ovitz and Shapiro, who turned out to be cousins back in the ’80s.
Ovitz and his fiancée Tamara Mellon, aged 57, made the decision to gift this monumental piece of art to MOMA after it debuted at the Pace Gallery in Chelsea. The story of how Ovitz discovered his familial connection to Shapiro is quite amusing. He stumbled upon Shapiro’s work in 1982 at the Paula Cooper gallery in NYC, unknowingly purchasing a piece by his cousin. When Ovitz excitedly shared this news with his mother, she casually revealed that Shapiro was indeed a relative. The revelation led to a long-lasting bond between the two men, with Ovitz jokingly expressing his displeasure at paying full price for his cousin’s artwork.
Despite the initial shock of their family connection, Ovitz and Shapiro have maintained a close relationship over the years, speaking regularly and collaborating on various projects. Ovitz, known for his successful ventures in the entertainment industry, including co-founding Creative Artists Agency (CAA), has always been a supporter of Shapiro’s art. In fact, when Ovitz commissioned artists to create pieces for the CAA headquarters in Beverly Hills, he specifically chose Lichtenstein and Shapiro for the job. This gesture speaks volumes about Ovitz’s admiration for his cousin’s talent and dedication to showcasing his work.
Moving forward, MOMA curator Ann Temkin is thrilled to have ARK as part of the museum’s collection, noting the significance of displaying Shapiro’s late work alongside his earlier pieces. The decision to place the sculpture in a gallery with natural light and adjacent to the sculptural garden reflects the museum’s commitment to showcasing artists’ careers in their entirety. Shapiro, who shows no signs of slowing down in his artistic endeavors, continues to push boundaries and create work that resonates with viewers on a profound level. As he aptly puts it, “The language of sculpture transcends cultures, and I am constantly striving to create pieces that are truly irrefutable.”
Overall, the connection between Ovitz and Shapiro, as well as the donation of ARK to MOMA, highlights the enduring power of art to bring people together and spark meaningful collaborations. Not only does this story shed light on the personal bond between two individuals from different worlds, but it also underscores the transformative impact of art on both creators and audiences alike. In a world where connections are often fleeting, the enduring relationship between Ovitz and Shapiro serves as a reminder of the lasting influence of family ties and shared passions.
