Art Collector Victor Pinchuk joins The Giving Pledge

The Ukrainian businessman and art collector Victor Pinchuk has added his name to the list of billionaires who have pledged to give away half their wealth in their lifetimes or at their deaths. The Giving Pledge, launched in 2010 by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett, has now attracted the support of 12 billionaires outside America. In March 2012 his wealth was estimated at $4.2bn by Forbes magazine. Since 2006 Pinchuk has funded a contemporary art gallery in a converted hotel in Kiev which hosts displays of international artists. He also reportedly plans to build a landmark museum in Ukraine within five years and is currently choosing an architect for the project.

Commenting on his decision, Victor Pinchuk said: “Joining a group of dedicated people, and with the opportunity to learn from them, I look forward to my giving becoming more impactful... I feel a special responsibility to give back to my country and society. The post-Soviet transformation process was very painful for Ukraine and other countries in the region. Some of us had the chance to use the opportunities that arose to make our fortunes. It is time to give back, so that as many citizens as possible can benefit.”

Exhibitions ‘The Chapman Brothers’ and ‘Tony Oursler’ at the PinchukArtCentre opened on February 16 and will run through to April 21.

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