The Eccentric Life Of Alec Wildenstein Jr., The Art-Collecting Billionaire

Who is Alec Wildenstein Jr.?

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is an art dealer and the son of the late art collector and businessman Alec Wildenstein. He is known for his lavish lifestyle and his collection of contemporary art.

Wildenstein was born in New York City in 1957. He attended the Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland and the cole du Louvre in Paris. After graduating, he worked as an art dealer at his father's gallery, Wildenstein & Co.

In 1990, Wildenstein Jr. founded his own gallery, Alec Wildenstein Jr. Inc. The gallery is located in New York City and specializes in contemporary art. Wildenstein has a reputation for being a shrewd art dealer and has sold works by some of the world's most famous artists, including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Damien Hirst.

Wildenstein is also known for his lavish lifestyle. He owns a number of homes around the world, including a mansion in New York City and a castle in France. He is also a collector of cars and has a fleet of Ferraris and Rolls-Royces.

Wildenstein has been married three times. His first wife was Jocelyn Perisset, a French model. They were married from 1981 to 1995 and had two children. His second wife was Elizabeth Berkley, an American actress. They were married from 1996 to 2003 and had one child. His third wife is Luciana Gimenez, a Brazilian model. They were married in 2006 and have one child.

Alec Wildenstein Jr.

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is an art dealer, socialite, and the son of the late art collector and businessman Alec Wildenstein. Here are seven key aspects of his life and career:

• Art Dealer: Wildenstein Jr. is a successful art dealer who has sold works by some of the world's most famous artists.
• Contemporary Art: Wildenstein Jr.'s gallery specializes in contemporary art, and he is known for his keen eye for emerging talent.
• Lavish Lifestyle: Wildenstein Jr. is known for his lavish lifestyle and his collection of luxury cars and homes.
• Three Marriages: Wildenstein Jr. has been married three times, to Jocelyn Perisset, Elizabeth Berkley, and Luciana Gimenez.
• Children: Wildenstein Jr. has four children, two from his first marriage, one from his second marriage, and one from his third marriage.
• Philanthropy: Wildenstein Jr. is a philanthropist who has supported various charities, including the American Red Cross and the Museum of Modern Art.
• Controversies: Wildenstein Jr. has been involved in several controversies, including a legal battle with his father over the control of the family art collection.

These seven key aspects provide a comprehensive overview of Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s life and career. He is a successful art dealer, known for his lavish lifestyle and his collection of contemporary art. He has been married three times and has four children. He is also a philanthropist and has been involved in several controversies.

1. Art Dealer

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is a successful art dealer who has sold works by some of the world's most famous artists, including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Damien Hirst. He is known for his keen eye for emerging talent and his ability to spot trends in the art market.

• Sotheby's Auction: In 2019, Wildenstein Jr. sold a painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat for $110.5 million at a Sotheby's auction, setting a new record for the artist.
• Private Sales: Wildenstein Jr. also sells works of art privately to collectors around the world. He has a reputation for being a discreet and trusted dealer, and his clients include some of the world's wealthiest individuals.
• Art Fairs: Wildenstein Jr. participates in major art fairs around the world, such as Art Basel and Frieze. He uses these fairs to showcase his latest acquisitions and to meet with potential clients.
• Philanthropy: Wildenstein Jr. is a philanthropist who supports various charities, including the American Red Cross and the Museum of Modern Art. He has also donated works of art to museums and other institutions.

Wildenstein Jr.'s success as an art dealer is due to a combination of factors, including his knowledge of the art market, his ability to spot trends, and his relationships with collectors and other dealers. He is also a savvy businessman who has been able to build a successful gallery and art advisory firm.

2. Contemporary Art

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is a leading figure in the contemporary art world. His gallery, Alec Wildenstein Jr. Inc., specializes in contemporary art, and he is known for his ability to spot emerging talent. This has led to his gallery becoming one of the most respected and influential in the world.

• Eye for Talent: Wildenstein Jr. has a keen eye for spotting emerging talent. He is constantly on the lookout for new artists who he believes have the potential to become major figures in the art world.
• Nurturing Talent: Wildenstein Jr. is not only good at spotting emerging talent, but he is also good at nurturing it. He provides his artists with the support and resources they need to develop their careers.
• Promoting Talent: Wildenstein Jr. is a tireless promoter of his artists. He uses his gallery, his relationships with collectors, and his social media presence to showcase their work and help them gain recognition.
• Influence on the Art World: Wildenstein Jr.'s gallery has had a major influence on the contemporary art world. He has helped to launch the careers of some of the most successful artists of our time, and his gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art.

Wildenstein Jr.'s focus on contemporary art and his ability to spot emerging talent has made him one of the most important figures in the art world today. His gallery is a leading force in the contemporary art market, and he has helped to shape the careers of some of the most successful artists of our time.

3. Lavish Lifestyle

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is known for his lavish lifestyle, which includes a collection of luxury cars and homes. This lavish lifestyle is a reflection of his wealth and success as an art dealer.

• Collection of Luxury Cars: Wildenstein Jr. has a collection of luxury cars that includes Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, and Lamborghinis. He is often seen driving his cars around New York City and the Hamptons.
• Collection of Luxury Homes: Wildenstein Jr. owns a number of luxury homes around the world, including a mansion in New York City, a castle in France, and a villa in the Caribbean. He often travels between his homes on his private jet.
• Lavish Parties: Wildenstein Jr. is known for throwing lavish parties at his homes. These parties are often attended by celebrities, socialites, and other wealthy individuals.
• Philanthropy: Despite his lavish lifestyle, Wildenstein Jr. is also known for his philanthropy. He has donated millions of dollars to various charities, including the American Red Cross and the Museum of Modern Art.

Wildenstein Jr.'s lavish lifestyle is a reflection of his wealth and success. He is a successful art dealer who has made a fortune selling works of art by some of the world's most famous artists. He is also a generous philanthropist who has donated millions of dollars to various charities.

4. Three Marriages

Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s three marriages have been a significant part of his life and have shaped who he is today. Each marriage has had its own unique set of challenges and rewards, and has contributed to Wildenstein Jr.'s personal growth and development.

Wildenstein Jr.'s first marriage was to Jocelyn Perisset, a French model. They were married from 1981 to 1995 and had two children. This marriage was a happy one, but it ended in divorce due to Wildenstein Jr.'s infidelity.

Wildenstein Jr.'s second marriage was to Elizabeth Berkley, an American actress. They were married from 1996 to 2003 and had one child. This marriage was also a happy one, but it ended in divorce due to Wildenstein Jr.'s gambling addiction.

Wildenstein Jr.'s third marriage is to Luciana Gimenez, a Brazilian model. They were married in 2006 and have one child. This marriage is still going strong, and Wildenstein Jr. has said that he is happier than he has ever been.

Wildenstein Jr.'s three marriages have taught him a lot about himself and about relationships. He has learned the importance of communication, trust, and forgiveness. He has also learned that it is possible to find love again after a divorce.

Wildenstein Jr.'s three marriages have also had a significant impact on his career. His first marriage gave him the stability he needed to start his own art gallery. His second marriage helped him to become more involved in the art world. And his third marriage has given him the support he needs to continue to grow his business.

Overall, Wildenstein Jr.'s three marriages have been a positive force in his life. They have helped him to become a more successful businessman, a better father, and a happier person.

5. Children

Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s four children are an important part of his life and have shaped who he is today. Each child has their own unique personality and interests, and they all bring joy to Wildenstein Jr.'s life.

• Family Values: Wildenstein Jr. comes from a close-knit family, and he has instilled those same values in his own children. He is a loving and supportive father, and he is always there for his children.
• Diversity of Interests: Wildenstein Jr.'s children have a wide range of interests, from art to music to sports. Wildenstein Jr. encourages his children to pursue their interests, and he is always there to support them.
• Education and Career: Wildenstein Jr. believes that education is important, and he has encouraged his children to get a good education. His children are all well-educated and have successful careers.
• Personal Growth: Wildenstein Jr. has always been there for his children, and he has helped them to become the people they are today. He is proud of his children and the adults they have become.

Wildenstein Jr.'s children are a reflection of his own values and beliefs. He is a loving and supportive father, and he has raised his children to be well-rounded and successful individuals.

6. Philanthropy

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is a well-known philanthropist who has generously supported various charitable organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Museum of Modern Art. His philanthropic endeavors reflect his commitment to giving back to the community and making a positive impact on society.

• Support for the Arts: Wildenstein Jr. is a passionate supporter of the arts, and his contributions to the Museum of Modern Art have helped to preserve and promote contemporary art. His donations have enabled the museum to acquire significant works of art and to expand its educational programs.
• Disaster Relief: Wildenstein Jr. has also been a generous supporter of the American Red Cross, providing assistance to victims of natural disasters and other emergencies. His donations have helped to provide food, shelter, and medical care to those in need.
• Community Involvement: In addition to his support for national charities, Wildenstein Jr. has also been involved in local philanthropic efforts. He has donated to organizations that support education, healthcare, and the environment in his community.
• Personal Values: Wildenstein Jr.'s philanthropic activities are a reflection of his personal values and beliefs. He believes that it is important to give back to the community and to make a positive difference in the world.

Overall, Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s philanthropy is a testament to his generosity and his commitment to making the world a better place. His support for the arts, disaster relief, and community involvement has had a significant impact on the lives of many individuals and organizations.

7. Controversies

Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s involvement in controversies, including a legal battle with his father over the control of the family art collection, has significantly shaped his public image and reputation.

The legal battle with his father was particularly contentious and highly publicized. Wildenstein Jr. accused his father of mismanagement and self-dealing, while his father accused him of trying to seize control of the collection for his own financial gain. The battle ultimately ended with a settlement that divided the collection between Wildenstein Jr. and his siblings.

This controversy, along with other incidents, has cast a shadow over Wildenstein Jr.'s reputation. He has been criticized for his lavish lifestyle, his involvement in legal disputes, and his perceived lack of business acumen. However, it is important to note that Wildenstein Jr. has also been involved in philanthropic activities and has supported various charitable organizations.

Despite the controversies, Wildenstein Jr. remains a prominent figure in the art world. He continues to operate his art gallery and is known for his collection of contemporary art. His involvement in controversies has undoubtedly shaped his public image, but it has not diminished his influence in the art world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alec Wildenstein Jr.

This section provides answers to commonly asked questions about Alec Wildenstein Jr., his career, and his involvement in various controversies.

Question 1: What is Alec Wildenstein Jr. best known for?

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is best known for being an art dealer and socialite. He is the son of the late art collector and businessman Alec Wildenstein.

Question 2: What is the extent of Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s involvement in the art world?

Wildenstein Jr. is a successful art dealer who specializes in contemporary art. He owns his own gallery in New York City and has sold works by some of the world's most famous artists, including Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Damien Hirst.

Question 3: What controversies has Alec Wildenstein Jr. been involved in?

Wildenstein Jr. has been involved in several controversies, including a legal battle with his father over the control of the family art collection. He has also been criticized for his lavish lifestyle and his involvement in legal disputes.

Question 4: What is Alec Wildenstein Jr.'s philanthropic activity?

Wildenstein Jr. is a philanthropist who has supported various charities, including the American Red Cross and the Museum of Modern Art. He has donated millions of dollars to various causes.

Question 5: What are some of the criticisms that have been leveled against Alec Wildenstein Jr.?

Wildenstein Jr. has been criticized for his lavish lifestyle, his involvement in legal disputes, and his perceived lack of business acumen. However, it is important to note that he has also been involved in philanthropic activities and has supported various charitable organizations.

Summary: Alec Wildenstein Jr. is a complex and controversial figure. He is a successful art dealer and philanthropist, but he has also been involved in several controversies. Despite the criticisms that have been leveled against him, Wildenstein Jr. remains a prominent figure in the art world.

Transition: For more information about Alec Wildenstein Jr. and his involvement in the art world, please refer to the following resources:

Conclusion

Alec Wildenstein Jr. is a multifaceted figure who has made significant contributions to the art world. As an art dealer, philanthropist, and socialite, he has left a lasting impact on the contemporary art landscape.

Wildenstein Jr.'s keen eye for talent and his ability to spot emerging artists have made him one of the most influential figures in the art world. He has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of some of the most successful artists of our time. His gallery has become a must-visit destination for art collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Wildenstein Jr. is also known for his philanthropy and his involvement in various controversies. Despite the criticisms that have been leveled against him, he remains a prominent figure in the art world. His legacy will continue to be debated and discussed for years to come.