Interview with David “Mr Star City” White
During an intimate gallery solo exhibition in Los Angeles, I had the pleasure of meeting David White, widely known as Mr. StarCity. His collection of color-filled, figurative paintings and portraits captivated audiences with their expressionistic nature and rare form of honesty and vulnerability. What made this exhibition even more memorable were the live performances and video works that accompanied it. Prior to our physical encounter, Mr. StarCity and I had connected through Instagram, where he has a strong and committed following. His profile attracts believers and dreamers who appreciate his affirmations, faith, and unwavering hope for an optimistic future.
The Intersection of Art and Spirituality
When discussing his art practice, we delved into the intertwining relationship between his creative endeavors and his spirituality. Growing up in a large family with Jewish roots, David was exposed to biblical stories that shaped his sense of morality. Although his spirituality extends beyond Judaism to encompass the universe, his upbringing instilled in him a desire to seek solace through belief and the sharing of that belief with others. His art serves as a medium for personal healing, using vulnerability as a tool for uplifting and reminding individuals of our common humanity. This message of love and support is the essence of his artistic platform, a way for him to connect with others on a deep level.
A Personal Touch: Delivering Art to Collectors
One remarkable aspect of Mr. StarCity’s artistic journey is his commitment to personally delivering many of his works to collectors. This practice stems from his desire to document every aspect of his artistry and make himself accessible outside of gallery walls. By hand-delivering each piece, he ensures that his artwork finds a loving home and that collectors have a deep understanding of his personal connection to each creation. It is an opportunity for David to convey the blessings and positive energy he has poured into his art, sharing his love with those who appreciate and support his work.
Birthed from Brooklyn: A Journey to Art
Growing up in the neighborhoods of Bed-Stuy, East New York, and Brownsville in Brooklyn was no easy feat for David. These areas, especially during the ’80s and ’90s, were known for their rough and tough environment, plagued by poverty and crime. Despite these challenges, David found solace in the hip-hop and graffiti culture that surrounded him. Inspired by the desire to memorialize the lives lost in his community, he began creating murals and portraits that brought comfort and healing to his neighbors. However, after a close call with building management regarding his large-scale hallway graffiti, he temporarily shifted his focus to music. It was only later in life, after rediscovering painting, that David felt truly free and returned to his truest self. This profound connection reignited his love for art, a flame that continues to burn brightly within him.
Social Media: An Extension of Love and Grace
David’s strong presence on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, serves as an effective means of expressing his art, spreading positivity, and sharing messages of love and grace. Instagram, for him, is an extension of his teaching and creative practice, allowing for instantaneous communication and the transfer of love to his followers. By sharing glimpses into his mind and heart, David creates a space for vulnerability, both for himself and his audience. He believes that being vulnerable is liberating and that it fosters a deeper connection among individuals. With Instagram acting as his daily journal, he welcomes others to join him on this journey of self-reflection and growth.
Attracting Influential Collectors
David’s unique artistic style has garnered attention from a growing number of strong and influential collectors. One of note is Beth De Woody, who builds sincere relationships with the