The name Edythe Broad conjures images of art, education, and unparalleled generosity. As an American art collector and philanthropist, her influence has left an indelible mark on the world of culture and learning. Together with her late husband, Eli Broad, Edythe amassed a collection of “about 2000 pieces of art valued at more than $2 billion,” and championed arts initiatives, including the renowned Los Angeles Opera and The Broad Museum. In this comprehensive examination, Zatrun.com delves into the life, achievements, and profound impact of Edythe Broad, a true pioneer in the world of philanthropy.
Early Life and Serendipitous Beginnings
Edythe Broad, originally Edythe Lawson, was born in 1936 in Detroit to a chemist father and a homemaker mother. Her formative years were marked by a deep appreciation for the arts, nurtured by school trips to the Detroit Institute of Arts. It was during these visits that her fascination with art began, and she developed a special connection with masterpieces like John Singleton Copley’s “Watson and the Shark” and Picasso’s “Three Musicians.”
Serendipity played its part when, as a teenager, she crossed paths with Eli Broad, who would become her lifelong partner. After just a few dates, Eli proposed, and they tied the knot in 1954. Edythe’s father provided the initial financial support that helped launch Eli’s first company, laying the foundation for their substantial wealth, accumulated through various successful business ventures. The couple’s union brought forth two sons, Jeffrey and Gary, who would also become significant figures in their own right.
A Lifelong Passion for Collecting
In 1963, Edythe Broad, along with her family, relocated to Los Angeles. Her evening strolls through the galleries on La Cienega Boulevard ignited her passion for collecting, particularly the works of Southern California artists. It was during this time that she crossed paths with Taft Schreiber, introducing her to the world of art dealers in New York.
One of the milestones in their collection was the 1972 acquisition of Van Gogh’s drawing titled “Cabanes a Saintes-Maries, 1888,” for $95,000. However, the Broads shifted their focus towards postwar and contemporary art, culminating in a strategic exchange of the Van Gogh drawing for a masterpiece by Robert Rauschenberg.
Edythe Broad’s connections with contemporary artists in the 1970s were deeply influential. Lichtenstein gifted her his “Brushstroke Chair and Ottoman” sculptures after she expressed her admiration in his studio.
Her friendship with Dorothy Lichtenstein extended to yoga sessions, strengthening their bond. Edythe’s appreciation for contemporary art continues to evolve, with a particular affinity for the works of Jeff Koons. Many of Koons’ pieces find their place at The Broad Museum.
The Broad Museum: A Monument to Art
A significant milestone in Edythe Broad’s journey was the development of The Broad, a distinguished art museum that opened its doors in 2015. She played a pivotal role in selecting the architect, Elizabeth Diller, through an architectural competition.
Even before its completion, a public preview in February 2015 attracted over 3,500 visitors, a testament to the anticipation surrounding this remarkable cultural institution. The museum was officially inaugurated by Edythe and her husband on September 20, 2015.
Edythe Broad: A Patron of Music and Opera
Edythe Broad’s philanthropic pursuits extend beyond the realm of art. She is a notable patron of classical music and opera, forming a close bond with the legendary Plácido Domingo. Her contributions led to the establishment of two distinguished music venues, The Broad Stage, a performing arts center at Santa Monica College, and the Edye, an adjacent black box performance space.
The Broads’ commitment to opera was exemplified by their $6 million donation to the Los Angeles Opera, which facilitated the production of Richard Wagner’s opera cycle, “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” during the 2009-10 season. Their generosity continued with a $7 million gift to sustain the Eli and Edythe Broad general director at LA Opera in June 2013.
Edythe and Eli Broad’s philanthropic legacy is remarkable. They established The Broad Foundations, including The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation and The Broad Art Foundation, boasting a combined asset value of $2.5 billion. Their dedication to philanthropy was made evident when they signed The Giving Pledge in 2010, pledging to donate at least 75% of their wealth to charitable causes.
Educational initiatives have been at the forefront of their philanthropic efforts, with a focus on expanding learning opportunities for students from underserved communities. Notable contributions include $28 million for the construction of the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Their support for scientific and medical research resulted in significant donations, including $400 million to establish the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, dedicated to genomics research.
In recognition of their exceptional philanthropic leadership, Edythe and Eli Broad received the William E. Simon Prize for Philanthropic Leadership in 2013. Their contributions to the world of arts and culture were celebrated with the American Federation of the Arts Cultural Leadership award in 2018. The following year, they were honored with honorary degrees from the University of Southern California, acknowledging their lifelong commitment to education and the arts.
Edythe Broad’s life is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of philanthropy and the enduring impact of art and education on society. Her legacy continues to enrich the world, setting an example for future generations of philanthropists and art enthusiasts alike.
