Renowned artist Larry Bell, known for his minimalist glass sculptures, reveals his lifelong passion for collecting 12-string guitars in a recent interview. Bell, 85, was born with hearing loss but discovered the beauty of music through a 12-string guitar he found in a pawn shop as a teenager. Since then, he has amassed roughly 300 guitars in a climate-controlled room in his studio in Taos, N.M. Bell appreciates the rarity and difficulty of playing 12-string guitars, stating that his collection is a reflection of his love for improbable things.
Bell’s collection includes guitars from various makers, with his most expensive being a McPherson valued at $10,000. However, Bell treasures a modestly priced Mexican instrument for its exceptional playability. Despite some guitars being damaged due to the dry climate in Taos, Bell maintains them with humidifiers.
In light of recent events, Bell is considering donating his collection to help musicians in need, particularly those affected by the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. Bell’s love for 12-string guitars is not solely about the value of the instruments but the joy they bring to those who play them. His unique collection reflects his passion for music and his desire to share it with others. Bell’s story serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend barriers and bring joy to those who experience it.
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