Parsons Illustration Alum and current Adjunct faculty member Gavin Spielman was recently honored with a cover illustration for an issue of Dan’s Papers.  The issue also featured an interview with Gavin–he discussed his inspiration and techniques.  Here’s a taste:

Q: Despite your being known for landscapes, you experienced a very different kind of scene when you were a student.

A: Yes, I used to hang out in St. Mark’s Place observing homeless people on the street, aging older men. I found them beautiful and sincere, with their weathered looks. I would pay them to pose for me. Oddly enough, my studio is in that same area.

Q: What else were you doing at that time?

A: I was doing graphic design. As a student I studied philosophy and music at SUNY-New Paltz, transferring to Parsons to major in illustration. I teach at Parsons now.

Q: How did that early experience with the homeless influence you?

A: I detached myself from the destitution on the street. I was sacrificing monetary gains to devote my work to the homeless.

Q: Your subjects are different now. How would you characterize your current style and subjects?

A: I’m a traditionalist; I don’t think technology and graphic design adhere to the “Old World” style that I respect. As for subject matter, I don’t look for social subjects now but for muted scenes like what George Innes would do. I am interested in looking for dark scenes, lighting-wise.

Read the rest of the interview here.  You can see more of Gavin’s work on his official website, and if you live in the New York City area, his work is included in a show at 225 Gallery called, “Macy’s is Not the Only Flower Shop in Town!”  The show is up through May 17.

So pick up your copy of Dan’s Papers and stop by 225 Gallery soon!  Congrats, Gavin.

225 Gallery
225 W. 14th Street
Gallery Hours–Mon-Thurs: 10am – 7pm; Fri, Sat, Sun: 10am – 6pm