The Art of the Steal

A film by Don Argott

Modern America’s greatest art scandal

In 1922, Dr. Albert C. Barnes formed a remarkable educational institution around his priceless collection of art, located just five miles outside of Philadelphia. Now, more than 50 years after Barnes’ death, a powerful group of moneyed interests have gone to court for control of the art, and intend to bring it to a new museum in Philadelphia.

Standing in their way is a group of Barnes’ former students and his will, which contains strict instructions stating the Foundation should always be an educational institution, and that the paintings may never be removed. Will they succeed or will politics prevail over a man’s dying wishes?

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Director

Don Argott

Producer

Sheena M. Joyce

Runtime

101 & 86 Minutes

Rights Represented

International Rights

Captions Available

None Available

Press

“Terrifically suspenseful and enlightening. The forces of art and money square off with primal ferocity.”

- Entertainment Weekly

“Engrossing…a totally involving story about the exploita-tion of art and the thorny entanglement of culture, capitalism and politics.”

- IndieWire
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Watch trailer

Festival & Awards

Official Selection—TORONTO Film Festival
Official Selection—NEW YORK Film Festival
Official Selection—AFI Film Festival

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The Art of the Steal

Modern America’s greatest art scandal

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