In the Frame: Gabriela Hearst

What are you working on currently?

Gabriela Hearst: ‘I’m working on my Fall 2025 collection, which centres on the mother goddess, based on the research done by the archaeologist Marija Gimbutas. I’m working on other projects at the same time — one of my favourites is the possibility of opening a nightclub.’

What ritual or routine keeps you going?

GH: ‘It’s a combination of mind, body and soul, so I would say exercise — HIIT training — and then a range of self-care: acupuncture, banya, cryotherapy and massage. I also meditate daily.’ 

Purpose and impact are central to your brand. Tell us about your Save The Children initiative and why it’s important to you.

GH: ‘I’ve been on the board of Save the Children since 2018. In a recent meeting I learned that the number of children at risk or in crisis due to climate or conflict is 1 billion. It’s a huge number, and it makes you feel hopeless when you hear it, but because I know the organization so well, I know the humanitarians at Save the Children are geniuses, logistical geniuses, who are able to help, nurture, save and protect children in very difficult zones. Their work is remarkable and admirable. I have immense gratitude for these humanitarians. They put their lives at risk to serve others. It's really inspiring.’

Which artist or designer do you wish you knew more about?

GH: ‘I wish I could have met Elsa Schiaparelli. She was a pioneer. Her knitwear was made by Armenian refugees. She collaborated with many artists including Salvador Dalí and Alberto Giacometti. She’s one of the most admirable designers from our history. Another designer that I would have liked to know and spend more time with is Vivienne Westwood.’

What work of art made you see things differently?

GH: ‘Growing up in South America we were exposed to many images of paintings by Velázquez and Goya. I don’t believe Picasso’s work would exist without Goya or Velázquez. The Spanish painters were the first ones to question reality as it was. You can also see how that transpired in Spanish literature that we read with magical realism, with Gabriel Garcia Marquez, etc. ’

What artists or designers are you watching right now?

GH: ‘I’m very lucky to know some incredible artists. Harold Ancart is an artist I truly admire, as is the painter Ian Felice, who is also the lead singer of The Felice Brothers. I also love the work of the weaver Marie Hazard.’

Last gift you gave?

GH: ‘The last gift I gave was Chappell Roan stickers to my daughters and a ‘‘burn book’’ where they can write all their deep secrets and burn them after.’ 

Most memorable show you’ve seen this year?

GH: ‘Adam Pendleton’s An Abstraction at Pace Gallery in New York and Rashid Johnson’s last show in Paris, Anima.’

Your favourite view, anywhere in the world?

GH: ‘Anything with an unobstructed horizon.’

Top picks from Christie’s right now?

GH: ‘I’m drawn to several works in the upcoming First Open | Post-War and Contemporary Art auction: Francesco’s Clemente’s painting Daughter of the Mountain (1998), a work of paper about ‘‘cute things’’ by Aya Takano, a domestic scene by Laurie Simmons and this bronze figure by Kiki Smith.’