Josh Brolin’s Fame Didn’t Help Him Land a Waitlisted Artwork: ‘Your Ego Gets Shot Down' | Artnet News
Artnet News
by Sarah CasconeFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Josh Brolin, renowned for his roles in films like *No Country for Old Men* and *Dune*, shared insights into his life as an art collector during a podcast interview. Despite his fame, Brolin revealed that his connections in Hollywood often don’t translate to advantages when acquiring artwork from galleries with long waiting lists. He recounted a humbling experience trying to buy a painting by Danielle Mckinney, where he learned that loyalty and relationships with artists and galleries take precedence over celebrity status. This experience taught him the importance of humility and genuine appreciation for art.
Brolin discussed how his love for art began during a formative trip to Europe in his early 20s, where he spent hours immersed in museums like the Uffizi. He credits this passion with helping him forge meaningful relationships, including one with his stepmother, Barbara Streisand, through their shared admiration for Lucien Freud’s work. Brolin also highlighted how art has become a bridge between his personal and professional life, allowing him to connect with agents and dealers like Joel Lubin of CAA, who shares his enthusiasm for contemporary art.
The actor emphasized the unique challenges and rewards of collecting art, such as navigating the competitive nature of galleries versus the more accessible opportunities through museums. He shared anecdotes about specific acquisitions, including a Jammie Holmes painting procured with help from dealer Jeffrey Deitch, who appreciated Brolin’s sincere interest in the artwork. These stories illustrate how art collection is not just about acquiring objects but also about building meaningful connections and understanding the nuances of the art world.
For readers interested in art, Brolin’s reflections offer valuable insights into the dynamics between fame, passion, and the acquisition process in the art market. His story underscores that while celebrity may open doors in some areas, the art world operates on a different set of values, emphasizing dedication, relationships, and genuine love for art over superficial connections. This perspective makes Brolin’s journey as an art collector both relatable and inspiring to anyone navigating the complexities of collecting and building a personal art collection.
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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/24/2026