Along with the desire to educate a public on modern art, the dream of a museum was fuelled by Zobel's sympathy towards the artists themselves. For many artists, he already facilitated scholarships to study abroad and even supplied them with materials they needed for their art making. For example, as Eric Torres recalls: "There was a Muslim painter and sculptor whom he learned needed a camera to document Islamic art and artifacts. He needed a camera. Zobel bought him one, just like that." The most important role Zobel played, however, was as a collector. Zobel collected the work of artists who were still starting in their careers. He staunchly maintained that the best way to support an artist is to buy his work.