The Art in Gossip Girl You Never Knew You Missed
A complete list of the best art hanging on the walls of Manhattan's elite
Girl&Gallery here, your one and only source into the scandalous art of Manhattan's elite. Greetings, Upper East Siders and art aficionados alike. As we delve into the glitzy and glamorous world of Gossip Girl, where scandalous secrets and high-society shenanigans reign supreme, it's easy to be swept away by the drama, the fashion, and, of course, the mysterious and omnipresent "G", who in this article stands for Girl&Gallery. However, amidst the penthouse parties and Park Avenue soirees, there's an artistic undercurrent that often slips through the cracks faster than a secret shared on the Met steps.
We're breaking down all of the Gossip Girl art character by character and turning our discerning gaze towards the often overlooked canvas-covered corners of the Gossip Girl universe. So, grab your finest headband, don your most impeccable suit, and join us as we unmask the canvas conspiracy behind Gossip Girl's art scene. This is your guide to the art of Manhattan's Elite.
Gossip Girl’s Art Advisor
Amidst the plot twists and love triangles, there was a treasure trove of contemporary art that went virtually unnoticed, or maybe you did and have always wanted to know who made them. Some of the artworks add to the plot and give us a little more insight into the creation of each character’s story.
The Gossip Girl universe is a curated gallery of modern masterpieces. The producers of Gossip Girl partnered with the NYC based Art Production Fund (APF) to bring real life artworks to the set of the show. So, the ones you see on the apartment walls are in fact the original one of a kind artworks.
Lily Van Der Woodsen
The prize of best art collection in Gossip Girl goes to Lily, which seems right as she was the only character to have an art dealer present in the plot. Her penthouse was also home to the most recognisable pieces in the arch of Gossip Girl Art.
Richard Phillips
Location: Staircase
It may be the most iconic artwork of the entire show. We all know the Richard Phillips masterpiece, Spectrum, adorning Lily's staircase, is a striking blend of vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. This iconic painting, with its abstract yet harmonious composition, serves as a chic backdrop for the drama unfolding in the Upper East Side residence. Phillips' modern flair and the artwork's interplay of light and color add depth to the scene, making Spectrum more than decor – she’s’ a silent observer.
Elmgreen and Dragset
Location: Entryway
Rivalling the Richard Phillip’s for most iconic artwork, the Prada Marfa sign by the elevator is a quintessential piece of Gossip Girl art. An elegant dance between quirkiness and sophistication is like the rebellious cousin crashing an upscale family gathering - Charlie is that you? The piece is a reference to the Prada store ‘sculpture’ created by artist duo Elmgreen and Dragset in Marfa Texas. Poking the idea of high luxury, deterioration, and consumerism. With its avant-garde charm, it challenges the pristine aesthetics of the Upper East Side, injecting a dose of artistic rebellion into the lavish space. It's an unexpected twist in Lily's curated world, symbolic of Rufus maybe?
Ryan McGinley
Location: By the Fireplace
The photograph by the fireplace is by an incredible American photographer Ryan McGinley. His work is all about capturing that wild, free-spirited youthful energy. Moments filled with joy, freedom, and a touch of rebellion. There’s something so raw and real in the way he sees the world, which makes his images feel more like memories than photographs. It’s a perfect match for Lily’s own past as a photographer, snapping shots of Rufus on tour. McGinley was actually one of the youngest artist ever to have a solo show at the Whitney in NYC at 25 years old!
Marilyn Minter
Location: Hallway
This artwork, a dazzling dance of glamour and grit, captures the essence of a woman confidently stepping onto a curb in stilettos. Reminds me of Serena coming home from a night out with Georgina. Minter's signature style, blending high fashion and a hint of the surreal, turns a seemingly simple act into a visually arresting spectacle. "Stepping Up" isn't just art; it's a powerful statement of strength and beauty, echoing in the corridors of the Upper East Side. Once again, a spot-on nod to Lily’s true character. She may live a life of luxury but the gals got some grit.
Kiki Smith
Location: Livingroom
In the chic tapestry of Lily Bass's Gossip Girl abode, the Kiki Smith artwork "Carrier" is a nice contrast to the other bright works she hands. A visual marvel, it features Smith's distinctive blend of symbolism and mythology. Portraying a figures bearing both vulnerability and resilience. The piece can be seen being hung up on the wall by art handlers in Season 1 when Lily is decorating her iconic apartment. It’s playful but also more ‘mature’ than the other artworks in a way which seems symbolic of what Lily may be trying to project when getting married to the big bad Bart Bass.
Cecily Brown
Location: Bex’s laptop
Spotted: Lily Bass making a huge mistake. Bex, Lily's art dealer, informed Lily of a Cecily Brown coming to market and Lily didn't bid! Brown's work is like a visual roller coaster – you ride through this chaotic yet strangely harmonious explosion of colours. It's like she invites you into a world where abstract meets a wild dance party, and you can't help but get hooked on the energy she brings to the art scene. It would have been perfect for Lily’s walls. Big mistake Lil!
Robert Maplethorpe
Location: Lost at auction
Hold onto your headbands because Robert Mapplethorpe's artwork caused quite the stir in Gossip Girl's art scene. Mapplethorpe, a well known photographer, captured the raw beauty and unapologetic sensuality of his subjects, making each photograph a statement piece. Famed for black-and-white images of celebrity portraits and risque nudes, Bart bought the photo Mapplethorpe took of Lily secretly at auction because he didn’t want it being seen by anyone (rude). Upon finding out his opinion of the photo it lead to Lily finding out about his private investigation into their whole family and we all know how that turned out. Dossier be dammed!
Serena Van Der Woodsen
Being the lucky resident of both the Van Der Woodsen AND Waldorf penthouse, Serena was surrounded by great art at every turn and her walls were no exception. Seems like she may have adopted Lily's taste in contemporary art.
Marilyn Minter
Location: Bedroom
Now, let's sneak a peek into S's bedroom where the Gossip Girl Art icons continue. A Marilyn Minter artwork takes the spotlight. The work seems like a nod to the ever watchful eye of Gossip Girl - Serena is her favourite muse after all. It’s a mix of glamor and rebellious allure. The artwork, like a whispered secret against Serena's plush backdrop, captures Minter's signature blend of grit and gloss, making every glance in the room a provocative encounter with contemporary art that's as bold and unpredictable as the iconic socialite herself. With Marilyn being one of the best female artist of our time, there's not a more perfect artist to adorn her walls.
Paul Villinski
Location: Bedroom at the Waldorf's
Scooch over B, there's a new blonde under your roof. No different to her bedroom at the VDW apartment, Serena’s room at the Waldorf’s was just as fabulous. Hung above her headboard was Villinski's creation, a delicate dance of butterfly wings caught in mid-flight, adding an organic touch to the sophisticated Waldorf apartment. Like much of Valinski’s work, this one is made out of aluminum cans and this one in particular was made specifically for the show. It's not just an artwork; it's a symbol of fleeting beauty and the potential for change, quietly observing the drama unfolding within the lavish walls of the Gossip Girl universe. The swirling butterflies are reminiscent of Serena’s flighty and charming personality.
Todd DiCiurcio
Location: Art Gallery
Remember when Serena wanted a job? Well one of her interviews was with Todd DiCiurcio, a well known artist. He appeared on Episode 3, Season 3, declining Serena for an internship role. Behind her (seen below) was one of his works hung on the wall. He is well known for his drawings of bands and musicians. Sound somewhat familiar? The parallel to Lily’s past life as a band photographer is rather genius.
Emilio Kruithof
Location: Bedroom at the Waldorf's
At the request of S herself, Blake Lively requested artworks by Emilio Kruithof to be featured in the show. Kruithof's pieces bring this cool fusion of modern edge and timeless elegance to Serena's personal space.
James Nares
Location: Van Der Woodsen Lobby
Where are you off to S? Hanging in the lobby of the VDW building is a James Nares artwork. Nares’ work looks as if a ribbon had magically changed into paint. They’re fluid and dreamlike paintings that the artist suspends themself over the canvas to create.
Blair Waldorf
Monarch of the Met steps, Queen B was no stranger to good art. Her taste in artwork is was as classic as her headbands, but one painting in particular did lead her into a sticky situation.
Èdouard Manet
Location: Musée d'Orsay, Paris
In the elegant halls of the Musée d'Orsay, Edouard Manet's masterpieces adorn the walls like portals to a bygone era of Parisian chic. A perfect venue for the meetcute between B and the Prince. The painting is a daring composition where a reclining nude gazes unapologetically at the viewer, bringing a touch of scandal and allure to the Upper East Side's artistic escapade. When the painting was first shown it caused a level of scandal even Lily couldn’t clean up herself.
Patrick McMullan
Location: Sotheby’s
Patrick McMullan's photography captures the glamorous chaos of New York City life, much like Gossip Girl's Upper East Side. Through his lens, the characters come to life in a visual symphony of socialite soirées, fashionable extravaganzas, and dramatic encounters. McMullan's artistry becomes a time capsule, freezing moments of opulence and scandal, offering a glimpse into the dazzling world where privilege and drama collide. Blair went to battle with Serena and Chuck over one of his photos at Sotheby’s in hopes of gaining a spot in La Table Èlitaire.
Dan Humphrey
Lonely Boy, son of a gallerist and artist, could very well be considered an artist himself - of literary nature that is. Anyone capable of creating the swirling rumours on Gossip Girl must have a knack for creativity right?
Jenna Gribbon
Featured in show as herself
Jenna Gribbon makes a cameo on Gossip Girl as herself, adding a touch of contemporary cool to the Upper East Side's artistic landscape. In 2012, Gribbon started a supper club called the Oracle Club. The invites were highly sought after and were part of her cameo in the show along with providing some relationship advice to the then-couple Dan and Blair. Today, Gribbon is creating breathtaking paintings offering a window into her intimate life inspired by her partner and muse.
Rufus Humphrey
Owner of the (fictitious) Bedford Avenue Gallery and married to an artist in season one, Rufus Humphrey is our resident gallerist of the show. One painting even entangles him into quite a love triangle of sorts. Rufus’s Brooklyn gallery could have been given a little more love in the plot, but nevertheless, let's dive into the Gossip Girl art on the wall of Rufus’s gallery.
Rita Wilmers
Location: Bedford Avenue Gallery
The aforementioned uncomfortable love triangle was brought on by an Alison Humphrey original, painted up in Hudson. In reality it was made by an artist Rita Wilmers. In the words of Bex, the “work is enigmatic” and I must say I agree. Wilmers is still working today creating glassworks and mixed media paintings like the ones on the show. This particular painting (below) was purchased and then returned by our beloved Lily upon realizing who made it. How symbolic that it was art that brought Lily and Rufus back together again.
Rufus’s Gallery
Other artists seen on the walls of the Bedford Avenue Gallery are Kevin Fey and Martha Walker. Fey is a painter and Walker is a sculptor. Both artists work in Brooklyn NY in real life. An organic fit to the plot of the show and making Gossip Girl art come to life! I have a lot of respect for the Art Production Fund for the level of detail and natural connections placed throughout the show.
Chuck Bass
Another iconic contributor to the realm of Gossip Girl art is the boy billionaire himself, Chuck Bass. Many recognisable pieces from the show can be found on his walls, and I have to say, he's got good taste.
Richard Phillips
Location: Bedroom
In the sophisticated realm of Chuck Bass, the omni-present Richard Phillips painting above his bed commands attention. The artwork mirrors Chuck's complex persona and promiscuous endeavours. Phillips' distinctive style, flowing between realism and pop culture allure, resonates with the opulence and intrigue that define Chuck's world. The painting becomes not just a decorative element but a sophisticated reflection of Chuck's taste, adding a layer of artistic allure to the mysterious charm of the Upper East Side's resident bad boy. Made by the same artist who painted the rainbow woman on Lily’s staircase, you can't help but wonder if his art-savvy stepmother influenced this choice of artwork.
Ruvan Wijesooriya
Location: The Empire Apartment
Wijesooriya's artwork made up a large portion of the Gossip Girl art (keep scrolling and you’ll see). His photographs covered the walls of Chuck's apartment at the Empire. His saucy style reflects Chuck’s affliction with the provocative. He is an NYC-based photographer with a knack for nostalgia and shock factor. Since 2020 he has been documenting protest groups in New York. His photos are some of the most recognisable of the later seasons.
Jenny Humphrey
The Humphrey family clearly has a creative gene. She may have burned many bridges and ruffled quite a few feathers but in the world of Gossip Girl her designs were great. Jenny is another creator of Gossip Girl art within the plot itself.
Ruvan Wijesooriya
Location: Max's Apartment
Well well well Little J, looks like you've made another mess. Luckily Nate came to your rescue playing bug brother when Lonely Boy was nowhere to be found. Before I turn into Gossip Girl, let me explain what happened. In additional to covering Chuck's Empire apartment walls, Wijesooriya's work was featured on the wall of Max’s apartment, the creepy photographer who Agnes and Jenny went over to 'hang out' with before being busted by Nate. He has photographed Willa Holland aka Agnes in real life. Some of which can be seen on the walls of the photo below.
Where to see Gossip Girl Art In Real Life?
Let's talk about the crown jewel of New York City – the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met steps are the throne room of Queen B’s Upper Easy Side castle. This cultural Mecca frequented by Blair’s minions, is located on Museum Mule aka 5th Avenue and 82nd Street. Many of the artists featured in this article are still working today so keep an eye out for their work coming to a museum or art gallery near you!
The artful journey of Gossip Girl art doesn't stop at the East Coast. Fasten your seatbelts Upper East Siders we’re off to Paris, where the Musee d'Orsay welcomes you into its hallowed halls. This historic museum, with its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, becomes a bridge between Gossip Girl's glamorous universe and the romantic allure of the City of Light where Blair met Prince Louis.
XOXO, Girl&Gallery
As we bid adieu to the captivating world of Gossip Girl art, it's clear that the canvas’ of Manhattan's elite are as diverse as the scandalous narratives that unfold. From penthouses to museum-worthy masterpieces, the series not only entertained but also elevated the importance of art as a character within the narrative. So, as we stroll away down 5th Ave and back into reality, let's carry with us the allure and inspiration of Gossip Girl art – a testament to the timeless union of culture, drama, and the artistry that transcends both screen and canvas.
You know you love me, xoxo Girl&Gallery.
NO WAY! 😂 Haha. What a blast from the past. I looooved Gossip Girl when I was a teenager and have rewatched it often since then. I’ve always wondered about the art in the show - I can’t believe you’ve written a blog about it.
Lily is a great example of a collector who collects art because she loves it. In the context of the show, the art had a supporting role to the character’s emotions, drama and overall storyline. A real shame we never got to see the lost Robert Mapplethorpe of Lily’s wilder, younger days… The Spectrum by Richard Phillips will always be my favourite from that show - so iconic above the staircase, always serving as a backdrop when the characters get caught snooping around in Bart’s and Lily’s bedroom, or there’s a reveal at a party about the possible identity of Gossip Girl. I love it all….