Orlando Museum of Art prepares for it third Cottrell-Lovett exhibit
Dr. James Cottrell and Joseph Lovett began collecting art over 40 years ago in Manhattan after getting together in 1976.
What started as an admiration for New York’s artistry and a way to support their community amidst HIV/AIDS epidemic turned into a collection comprising 500 works from artists worldwide. The pieces stretch across various mediums, from conceptual to abstract art, and speak to the politically charged period in which they were created.
What sets the couple’s collection apart is the dedication to the relationships they’ve nurtured within the art community. Although Cottrell and Lovett have acquired pieces from established artists, their passion lies in supporting up-and-coming talent, many of whom go on to gain national success and recognition. Once they find an artist they connect with, they commit to supporting them, often purchasing more than one piece of artwork.
Article as it appeared in Watermark Out News: