Vito Schnabel Art dealer Date of Birth: 27.07.1986 Country: USA

1. Biography of Vito Schnabel
2. The First Gallery
3. Success and Focus on Established Artists
4. Collaboration with René Ricard
5. Personal Life

Biography of Vito Schnabel

Vito Schnabel, the son of American artist and filmmaker Julian Schnabel and his first wife Jacqueline, achieved impressive success in the art trading industry at a relatively young age. He started his career in West Village, New York City, where he opened his first gallery at the age of 16. This early debut had a positive impact on his future endeavors. Schnabel had the opportunity to work with a plethora of outstanding artists, including both rising stars and established figures in the art world.

The First Gallery

Schnabel's first gallery, named after himself, opened on the corner of Broome and Hudson streets. The inaugural exhibition, titled 'Incubator,' showcased the works of seven artists, including Luigi Ontani, Herbie Fletcher, and Schnabel's sister Lola.

Success and Focus on Established Artists

Schnabel gained true recognition through his subsequent show. Instead of focusing on young and relatively unknown artists, he decided to redirect public attention to the largely forgotten Ron Gorchov. Gorchov had faded into obscurity by the late 1970s, despite his previous influence on the development of numerous great artists, including Vito's father, Julian Schnabel. The emphasis on already-established artists, who had a substantial body of work, proved to be a successful idea, as evidenced by the subsequent success of Schnabel's project. Although Schnabel did not ignore emerging artists, it was the "heroes of bygone days" that brought him fame.

Collaboration with René Ricard

Following Gorchov, Schnabel turned his attention to René Ricard, who had previously worked with Andy Warhol. Ricard also had a significant influence on the elder Schnabel's artistic development. This collaboration further highlighted Schnabel's ability to recognize and promote accomplished artists.

Personal Life

Although Schnabel's primary focus is art trading, he is also known to the wider public for his romantic relationships. He gained fame as the first lover of Demi Moore after Ashton Kutcher. Schnabel has been associated with an affinity for older women – he began dating the 50-year-old Moore at the age of 26 and had a romantic involvement with 44-year-old supermodel and actress Elle Macpherson when he was 21.