Christophe Lambert
Christophe Lambert, also known as Christopher Lambert, is a French actor best known for his role in the 1986 cult film "Highlander", where he played Connor MacLeod. Born on March 29, 1957 in the United States but raised in Switzerland, Lambert began his career in cinema in France in the 1980s.
He first gained attention in French films before embarking on an international career. Besides "Highlander", he appeared in films such as "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan" in 1984, "Mortal Kombat" in 1995, and "Subway" in 1985, directed by Luc Besson, which won him praise.
Although French, Lambert starred in numerous English-language films, demonstrating his versatility and international success. His personal life, notably his marriage to actress Diane Lane, also attracted public attention.
Art lover
Christophe Lambert is also known for his interest in art. Outside of his acting career, he has been noted for his appreciation of art and his participation in various artistic events and projects. Lambert was often seen frequenting art galleries and exhibitions, demonstrating his commitment and interest in the art world.
His love for art is not just passive; he was also involved in artistic projects. This sometimes includes supporting young artists or participating in art events, which shows one's desire to actively contribute to the art scene.
How did his love for art begin?
Christophe Lambert's passion for art began in his childhood, shaped by unique experiences and inspiring encounters. His first significant interaction with art occurred at the age of eight during a visit with his father to an auction in Geneva. This moment, when he was able to observe works of art up close and witness the fascinating spectacle of the auctioneer, left an indelible mark on him. Lambert was particularly captivated by the role of the auctioneer, which he likens to that of an actor, emphasizing the importance of adrenaline and emotion in the process of acquiring works of art.
Contrary to what one might think, Lambert's father was not an art collector. Working at the United Nations and having a large age difference with his son, he looked for ways to spend time with him, hence their visits to auctions and even yoga sessions, although Lambert admits to often falling asleep during the latter.
The real revelation for Lambert came from his childhood friend, Stéphane Barbier-Mueller, who came from a family of passionate collectors. Barbier-Mueller's museum-like home was filled with artwork accumulated by her grandfather, a compulsive collector who could spend years amassing the funds needed to acquire a piece. This immersion in an environment where even a Cézanne painting hung in the toilet deeply impressed Lambert.
This early exposure and experiences awakened in Lambert a deep interest in art collecting. He was touched by the Barbier-Mueller family's determination and passion for art, a trait that seems to have been passed down to their descendants, all of whom became collectors. This is how Lambert himself “caught the collecting bug”, starting his own journey into the fascinating world of art.
What does he collect?
Christophe Lambert's art collection reflects great diversity and interest in several artistic movements. He began collecting about thirty years ago, and his collection includes a variety of works ranging from impressionists to naive art, modern and contemporary art. Among the modern and contemporary artists he appreciates are Enoc Perez, Fiona Rae, Rosson Crow and Jean-Pierre Jouffroy.
A turning point in his collection took place in 2007, when he met Henri Thuaud, the agent of the American artist JonOne. This meeting led to Lambert being introduced to Arnaud Oliveux, who was at the time organizing his fourth street art sale at Artcurial. This event marked the beginning of his interest in street art, a genre he admires for its boundless energy and its ability to get off the canvas.
Lambert is particularly touched by the way street art seems to live and move, offering a new discovery every day, like a landscape or a face that reveals itself differently with each glance. For him, a “great” painting is one that has the capacity to nourish emotionally, to create a deep emotional connection with the viewer.
This approach to art collecting shows that Lambert is not limited to classical or traditional aesthetic criteria. He seems to seek works that speak on a more personal level, that vibrate with an energy and presence that transcends the frame of the canvas.
The street artists in his collection
- JonOne (John Andrew Perello) : Born in New York in 1963, JonOne is a street art artist of Dominican origin. He began with graffiti on the streets of Harlem before moving to Paris in the 1980s. His style is characterized by bright colors and fluid movements, merging graffiti with abstract expressionism.
Jef Aerosol : French artist born in 1957, Jef Aerosol is a pioneer of urban art in France. Known for his black and white stencils with a characteristic red touch, he often depicts cultural icons, anonymous people and scenes from everyday life.
Speedy Graphito (Olivier Rizzo) : Born in France in 1961, Speedy Graphito is one of the precursors of the urban art movement in France. His work, rich in color and symbol, explores popular culture, media and technology.
Banksy : An anonymous British artist, Banksy is known for his provocative street art, which combines political satire and dark humor. Active since the 1990s, his works are often accompanied by social and political commentary.
Blek le Rat (Xavier Prou) : French pioneer of street art, born in 1951, Blek le Rat is famous for his stencils which have influenced many artists, including Banksy. His work explores social and political themes, often focusing on those on the margins of society.
Invader : An anonymous French artist active since the 1990s, Invader is famous for his mosaics inspired by video games from the 1980s, notably the famous "Space Invaders". His works are scattered on the streets of cities around the world.
Shepard Fairey (Frank Shepard Fairey) : Born in 1970 in the United States, Fairey is a street art artist, graphic designer and activist. He is best known for his Barack Obama "Hope" poster and the "Obey Giant" logo. His work combines influences from pop culture, politics and advertising.
Ronnie Cutrone : Born in 1948 and died in 2013, Ronnie Cutrone was an American artist known for his vibrantly colorful pop art works. Assistant to Andy Warhol in the 1970s, his works are often imbued with subtle humor and a critique of American consumer culture.
A collector who accumulates!
Christophe Lambert reveals a lesser known side of his personality through his passion for art collecting. His method of collecting is unique: he adopts an almost monomaniacal approach, similar to his loyalty to a good restaurant where he could order the same dish for years. This loyalty translates into his art collection by concentrating on a few artists who captivate him, rather than seeking great diversity.
This method of collecting may not be conventional for creating a balanced collection, but it reflects his personal way of appreciating art. Lambert lives with his collection in a very organized way, knowing exactly where each new acquisition will fit on the walls of his home, like pieces of a puzzle. He divides his life between Geneva and Los Angeles, where part of his collection is exhibited on the walls, while the rest is carefully stored.
His collection today numbers around three hundred paintings. This accumulation sometimes raises practical concerns, such as after a major storm when he may travel miles to ensure that his reserves have not been damaged.
Lambert's ultimate dream as a collector is to be able to preserve his collection and share his passion with the public. He aspires to have a large space open free to the public, allowing others to enjoy the works he has collected. This goal underscores his desire not only to own art, but also to make it accessible, reflecting a generosity of spirit that goes beyond simple accumulation.
Jean Dubreil