By: ERIN MICHELLE NEWBERG
In the hallowed halls of art and celebrity, few embody the confluence of raw talent and unassuming charm quite like David Gilmore. Since the ‘90s, the self-represented maestro has been a force of nature, blending pop art’s accessible wit with the nuanced depth of fine art. His work has won over a discerning coterie of collectors, including Andy Cohen, Elton John, and even Heidi Klum. What follows is a window into the eclectic tastes that shape his world, a brief synopsis of his inspirations.
FASHION / If you look up any Schiaparelli runway show, from Elsa’s launch to the recent revival by Daniel Roseberry—who pays constant homage to the historical brand—it really leaves me speechless. The taxidermy paired with surrealism makes my heart skip a beat. Iris Apfel is also an icon that I consider to be a walking maximalist, a piece of art, and an inspiration.
TRAVEL / Simply walking down the street in Mexico City and even visiting Frida’s home makes me happy. I love to escape and dive face first into street culture. I have dreams of going to Asia—especially Tokyo—because the photos resonate with me. I cannot wait to explore nature and the forests, plus the city life. I also love to hike wherever I am and explore the urban terrain of diŠerent destinations.
ARCHITECTURE / I’m all about clean and minimalist homes and buildings. However, I cannot wait to visit the home of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé in Marrakech in the coming months. Jardin Majorelle’s Klein blue colors, the patterned materials, and textures are dreamlike. I also love the work of Iraqi-British architect and designer Zaha Hadid, and every time I’m in New York I walk the High Line to see 520 West 28th St. But locally, it’s the aggressively stuccoed texture of some 1970s buildings that takes my breath away, especially when the sun hits it at a certain angle and you see all the shaded pits.
MUSIC / I have always felt that lyrics can absolutely ignite an idea. And it does that with my mood and vibe when I create. I still have that ‘90s Seattle boy in me, so you may hear Hole, Alice in Chains, Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Kylie Minogue, and Britney Spears
