Herbert Lust, Influential Art Collector and Friend of Giacometti, Dies at 99

Herbert Lust, a prominent collector of modern and contemporary art, passed away on May 12 at his home in Greenwich, Connecticut. He was 99 years old. Lust, known for his friendships with artists like Alberto Giacometti and Robert Indiana, often described his journey in the art world as an 'accident.'

Life and Early Influences of Herbert Lust

Born on October 31, 1926, in Chicago, Lust grew up on a farm in Indiana. His family faced unique challenges as the only Jewish family in their community. “He didn’t want his children brought up in the city…so he moved us to central Indiana, where we had a famous dog farm,” Lust recalled.

Tragedy struck when Lust was just 9 years old, as he lost his father in a car accident. This led his mother to support him and his two sisters as a saleswoman. Lust later served in the Navy during World War II, where a literature course profoundly changed his life.

Artistic Relationships and Collecting Journey

While on a Fulbright scholarship in 1949, Lust met Giacometti at a luncheon in Paris. Feeling intimidated, he fabricated a story about his origins. Giacometti later invited him to his studio, where Lust confessed the truth, forming a lasting friendship. This connection allowed Lust to acquire numerous artworks, with substantial pieces from artists like Giacometti, Indiana, and Hans Bellmer.

His collection grew to over 1,000 works, showcasing his deep appreciation for modern art. Lust also contributed to the art community through his writing, publishing books such as Violence and Defiance and catalog essays for various artists.

Legacy and Contributions to the Art World

In his later years, Lust gifted numerous photographs to the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC. A collection of 48 photographs by Carlotta Capron, given by Lust, is set to be displayed later this year.

His impact on the art world was significant, not only through his collection but also through his relationships with artists and his written works. Lust is survived by his son, Herbert Lust II, and ten grandchildren.