Gijs van der Most is a Dutch-born photographer and entrepreneur known for his work in portrait and documentary photography. He gained international recognition through his marriage to comedian and actress Michelle Buteau, with whom he shares a life in New York City. Beyond his photography career, van der Most co-owns a furniture business and has a passion for capturing the essence of everyday life through his lens.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 16, 1977, in Los Angeles, California, Gijs van der Most was raised in the Netherlands. He pursued his education at the Utrecht School of Arts (HKU), where he honed his skills in photographic design. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in the world of photography.
Photography Career
Van der Most’s photography career began in Amsterdam, where he worked for several years before relocating to New York City. His work has been featured in notable publications such as Esquire, Men’s Health, People, and Fast Company. Specializing in portrait and documentary photography, he captures the nuances of human behavior and the intricacies of everyday life. His projects include Used Car Salesmen, Yard Sales, Sign Jugglers, and I ⥠Runyon Canyon, showcasing his ability to find beauty and stories in ordinary settings.
Documentary Projects
- Used Car SalesmenA series exploring the personalities and environments of car dealerships.
- Yard SalesCapturing the eclectic items and interactions at community yard sales.
- Sign JugglersFocusing on the individuals who perform with signs in urban settings.
- I ⥠Runyon CanyonDocumenting the diverse visitors and activities in Runyon Canyon, Los Angeles.
Van der Most Modern
In addition to his photography career, Gijs van der Most co-founded Van der Most Modern, a furniture business specializing in Mid-Century Modern and Dutch design. The store, located in Bushwick, Brooklyn, offers an eclectic collection of furniture and décor pieces curated by van der Most himself. His keen eye for design and passion for sourcing unique items have made the store a notable destination for design enthusiasts.
Personal Life
In July 2010, Gijs van der Most married Michelle Buteau, a renowned American stand-up comedian and actress. The couple welcomed twins, Hazel and Otis, via surrogate in September 2019. Despite their different backgrounds-van der Most hailing from the Netherlands and Buteau from New Jersey-their relationship is marked by mutual support and shared values. Buteau often shares anecdotes about their life together in her comedy routines, highlighting their complementary personalities and the joy they find in each other’s company.
Parenting and Lifestyle
Van der Most and Buteau have embraced parenthood with a blend of their cultural influences. While Buteau’s upbringing was characterized by a protective and cautious approach to parenting, van der Most’s Dutch background brought a more relaxed and open perspective. This fusion of parenting styles has enriched their family dynamic, allowing them to navigate the challenges of raising twins with a balanced approach. Their lifestyle reflects a blend of creativity, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to family, with both parents actively involved in their children’s lives and careers.
Public Appearances and Media Presence
Although Gijs van der Most maintains a relatively low public profile, he has accompanied Michelle Buteau to various industry events, including the 75th Annual Writers Guild Awards and the New York premiere of Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest. His supportive presence underscores his role as a steadfast partner in Buteau’s career. Additionally, van der Most’s work as a photographer has been showcased in exhibitions and publications, contributing to his recognition in the artistic community.
Gijs van der Most’s journey from the Netherlands to the United States reflects his passion for photography, design, and family. Through his lens, he captures the essence of human experience, offering viewers a glimpse into the stories that unfold in everyday life. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his venture with Van der Most Modern, where he brings a touch of Dutch design sensibility to New York City. As a husband and father, van der Most exemplifies the balance between personal and professional life, supporting his family’s endeavors while pursuing his own artistic passions.