In a world where actors often pivot between roles and offscreen endeavors, Jim Carrey stands as a multifaceted figure whose artistic inclinations have flourished alongside his cinematic career. While audiences may recognize him for his performances in films ranging from “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” to “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” Carrey has also spent nearly three decades curating a personal collection of fine art and modern design. This collection will soon be unveiled to the public through Bonhams L.A.’s upcoming auction, “Modern Design | Art,” slated for July 25.
Carrey’s collection, encompassing 35 diverse lots, highlights his refined taste in design objects. Among the featured items are Adam Kurtzman’s 2004 piece, “Pair of Hands” (estimated between $2,000 and $3,000), and Martin C. Herbst’s 1965 stainless-steel work, “Sphere” ($3,000–5,000). The collection’s array of furniture pieces, including a lily pad-shaped coffee table by Paula Swinnen ($6,000–8,000) and a cloud-shaped table by Joris Laarman ($60,000–80,000), reveals Carrey’s penchant for organic forms. Notably, the auction includes 1960s designs by French sculptor Philippe Hiquily, featuring a console co-designed with Jean-Claude Farhi ($20,000–30,000) and a brass and steel armchair ($20,000–30,000). A handwoven rug adorned with metallic thread and silk by Alexander McQueen ($15,000–20,000), dotted with hummingbirds, further accentuates the collection’s eclecticism.
The auction’s fine art segment is anchored by two compelling paintings: Kenny Scharf’s 2014 graphic oil “Ice Mont” ($30,000–40,000) and a David Hockney work on paper that captures one of his iconic pools ($10,000–20,000). This curated selection extends into photography, reflecting Carrey’s visual and musical predilections. Abstract images by Ruth Bernhard and Jacques Lowe are showcased alongside historic photographs of Bob Dylan, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix by photographers like Danny Lyon, Gered Mankowitz, and Astrid Kirchherr.
Reflecting on his decision to part with these treasures, Carrey remarked, “It’s been my very good fortune to be surrounded by many of the finer things in life, and I’m always gratified when it’s time to let them go so that others may enjoy them as well.” Carrey’s foray into the art world has gained momentum over the past decade. He began publicly displaying his paintings in the 2010s and later turned to politically charged cartoons around 2016—a move that garnered approval from critics like Jerry Saltz while drawing ire from others, such as the Guardian’s Jonathan Jones.
More recently, Carrey’s artistic focus has shifted toward themes of nature. His 2022 NFT, “Sunshowers,” aims to encapsulate the “miraculous regenerative potential” of sunlight. Earlier, in 2020, during a period of painting mangoes, Carrey explained his fascination with the fruit: “They represent abundance and sweetness and the gifts of the universe. So, that’s where I’m at.”
As Carrey’s collection heads to auction, it stands as a testament to his evolving artistic vision and his ability to see beauty in the unexpected. This sale not only offers a glimpse into the eclectic tastes of a Hollywood icon but also provides an opportunity for collectors to acquire pieces that have been cherished by one of the industry’s most enigmatic figures.
