David Gerstein:  Iconic Global Artist Does Art His Way

David Gerstein teaches us the lesson of not going with the herd.  No matter what others tell you -- stick to your inner voice.  You have seen his enormous playful vibrant metal sculptures in train stations and parks all over the world -- from China to the USA.   David considers his childhood in the 1950s as the cornerstone of his work.  Today, he shares his philosophy of sticking to your instinct as an artist.  Stories of financial struggles during his life in New York City in the 1970s punctuate the sweetness of his success at 76 years old.  Join me for this inspiring story; it’s the best twenty minutes you’ll spend today.

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In this episode we cover:

• Born in 1944, David was not an overnight sensation.  He built his reputation slowly and with intention.  
• Friends and family try to sway him from each medium he selected.  They call out how unpopular his plan was but David would not change his mind. 
• For 8 years he struggled with new things he did in sculpture.   He ignored what everyone else said about quitting. 
• David shares the advice he gives young artists today.  "Go your own way."
• He believes, if you stick to your convictions ultimately people will find you. 
• After traveling and studying around the world in his 20's, David returns to Israel.
• His time in NYC was interesting but full of suffering like only earning $40 per week.  David was penniless. He was the true example of a starving artist. 
• At 50 years old, David became known around the world as a relevant artist.   He says talent is not enough -- "you have to insist" and contribute to the art world. 
• Slowly he made his way into sculpture and it later became metal wall hangings he calls multiples and ultimately huge metal installations. 
• Financial success came with his idea of creating playful bright colored metal cutouts or multiples. David realized he needed to be different since Israel wasn't close to the art centers of the world.  He needed to become noticed.  These multiples allowed David to have exhibitions all over the world at the same time.  He stood out from the crowded art world.  
• Later David created smaller multiples so everyday people had the chance to own his work.  These small multiples became his "Ambassadors" to the art world.  Packable art took the world by storm and David's popularity exploded from Singapore to Buenos Ares.  
• At 76 years old, David Gerstein still insists he go against the stream. 

Amazing Informative Links:

• https://davidgerstein.com/
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/time-to-look/47607202351
• https://www.artfixdaily.com/artwire/release/4998-david-gerstein-wallsculptures-at-galerie-frank-fluegel
• https://www.israel21c.org/10-eye-catching-sculptures-around-tel-aviv/
•  http://www.artnet.com/artists/david-gerstein/