Becks and the Cities

Today we went to see Peggy Guggenheim’s art collection on the Grand Canal (one of the most visited attractions in Venice). As an art lover, it was awesome to see some of the works I’ve studied in school. There were pieces from Jackson Pollock, Picasso, and Jean Metzinger (to name a few). This modern art collection included works in genres like Surrealism, Cubism, and abstract expressionism.

Peggy Guggenheim is a really interesting person and you’ve probably heard of her famous family (just based on her last name). She was born in 1898 and had a troubled family life. Her father died when the Titanic sank, but heroically gave his seat up on the lifeboat to women and children. He was last seen smoking a cigar in his tux before the boat sank. After her father died, she used some of her inheritance ($30 million in today’s world!!) to tour the world. She often dressed to shock others (shaving her eyebrows off once in high school) just to gain the attention of her classmates. She married a few times and had several affairs. She lost more family members later in life and even her own daughter. Throughout her life, she collected famous, magnificent art. It’s hard to believe that at one time, the Louvre considered her collection as worthless! She also loved her dogs. Like LOVED her dogs. In the garden near the gallery, she is buried alongside her 14 dogs!

“I dedicated myself to my collection. A collection means hard work. It was what I wanted to do and I made it my life’s work. I am not an art collector. I am a museum.”

Peggy Guggenheim, 1970-76

After a few hours at the Guggenheim collection, we went to a restaurant tucked back in the alleys. There were only four seats outside and it was perfect! We had a view of a canal and boats passed by occasionally. After dinner, we went to the Rialto Bridge. It’s absolutely gorgeous and a must see when visiting Venice. I’m planning on going back tomorrow to take a few photos! Stay tuned!