Artist Don Hershman debuted his latest collection of original pieces, as part of a retrospective series inspired by the late Victor Arimondi. In the spring show, Donald and Victor: Under The Influence, the inventive artist embodied his visceral need to pursue interests and creative expressions as he paid a loving tribute to his former partner who succumbed to AIDS in 2001. Hershman’s paintings recognizes the unique attributes of Arimondi’s work, featuring a display that is compassionate and reflective of our modern times.
The opening reception took place at Salomon Arts Gallery in Tribeca. Notable attendees included: Artist Don Hershman, Gallery owners Gigi and Rodrigo Salomon, Jorge Alzate, Adam Stoltman, Edwina Sandys, Anthony Haden-Guest, philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, Carmen D’Alessio, Janik Aleksander, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Dr. Robi Ludwig, Mindie Barnett, Moises Castano, Lydia Duanmu, Sergio Orozco, Christopher Noto, Minnie Osmena, Mathieu Spannagel, Hayley Henning, and Adele Nino. Metropolitan opera singer Alexandria Hrabova performed at the end of the evening.
Arimondi was a famed Italian American model and art photographer whose unique eye and sensuous style captivated the world. At the time of his death, Hershman inherited his estate, including his vast collection of photography and art.
“During our 17 years together Victor steadfastly guided and molded me, and after his sudden death in 2001 I became solidly dedicated to my art, his presence more powerful than ever – a driving force to create something that is no longer a choice for me, but a necessity,” says Hershman. “This show at the Salomon Gallery brings mine and Victor’s work full circle with 20 new selected paintings from 2019 to 2021, along with a carefully curated selection of 38 photographs, taken between 1972 and 2001, four of which I interpreted into my own paintings, called the D & V Series.”