While known for his long and distinguished career in public service, few knew of Senator Lautenberg’s passion for art. He had been an avid art collector for many years, and shortly after winning his Senate seat in 1982, he began to pursue collecting with true passion, choosing works that identified an aspect of American culture and history. From Ed Ruscha’s billowing American flag set against a setting sun to Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup I, each work in his collection reflected his personal passion for America and gratitude for his American experience.