True Collectors

Richard Wright

Michael and Gabrielle Boyd were the first real design collectors I ever met. I had sold pieces to many people, but most of them were furnishing an interior, or if they were collecting, it was very specific (Eames for example). The Boyds are different and they are serious. Michael and Gabrielle view design as a continuum, from objects to architecture and everything in between. The Boyds have chairs, many, many chairs. And they have books, many, many books that have formed and guided their passion, curiosity and journey along the way. They wanted the best—the best example, the rarest form, the coolest color. 

Michael and Gabrielle see connections in everything they buy. Michael speaks of the “condensed object” expressing the considered thinking and internal logic reached in minimalism and purity: Tony Smith, a Pierre Chareau desk in black, the industrial logic of Jean Prouvé and the mathematics of Max Bill. But the condensed object can also be a vintage motorcycle helmet or a graphic poster or a guitar when they express the essence of their era.

Michael can comfortably speak about the Bart van der Leck desk and the surface of African spears, the rigor of Donald Judd and the power of the guitar as visual object. For the Boyds, everything connects: rare palm trees incorporated into the landscaping of their house, art on walls, music, sun, chairs, books, places, people, life.

My first single-owner auction fifteen years ago was for the Boyds; I suspect we will work together fifteen years hence—art, design, architecture will always connect us.

International Style: The Boyd Collection

Collecting is a way of life for Michael and Gabrielle Boyd. The Boyds have amassed a collection that is unparalleled in scope and breadth encompassing everything from modern masterpieces and art to everyday furnishings, objects and books. 

On November 8th and 9th, Wright presents more than 600 works from their exceptional collection at auction.

I. Masterworks
8 November 2018 | 10 am central

II. Room 10
8 November 2018 | 11 am central

III. Life of Design
8 November 2018 | 11 am central

IV. Word and Image
9 November 2018 | 10 am central

Life of Design