Gijs Van Der Most: The Dual Life Of Michelle Buteau's Husband—From Dutch Documentarian Photographer To Bushwick Furniture Mogul

Gijs van der Most is a creative force who has expertly navigated two distinct, highly visual careers: one as a respected Dutch documentarian photographer and the other as a successful New York-based entrepreneur in the world of vintage design. As of , Van der Most continues to split his time between these two passions, maintaining a high profile in the art world while co-running a thriving furniture business in Brooklyn.

The public often knows him best as the husband of comedian and host Michelle Buteau, but his professional portfolio, spanning from acclaimed photography projects to curating Danish mid-century modern pieces, reveals a profound and multifaceted artistic vision. This deep dive explores the full scope of his life, from his European roots and education to his latest ventures in the American design landscape.

Biography, Profile, and Personal Life

Gijs van der Most is a Dutch-born artist who has built a significant career in the United States, primarily in New York and Los Angeles. His work is characterized by a keen focus on portraiture and documentarian projects that capture the unique textures of American culture. He is a private individual whose public life is often viewed through the lens of his high-profile marriage.

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• Full Name: Gijs van der Most
• Nationality: Dutch
• Primary Profession: Photographer, Entrepreneur (Furniture)
• Education: Studied Photographic Design at The Utrecht School for Arts (HKU) in the Netherlands (graduated 2005)
• Career Start: Began working as a professional, independent photographer in January 2008
• Wife: Michelle Buteau (Comedian, Actress, Host of The Circle)
• Marriage Date: Married since 2010
• Children: The couple has twins (a son and a daughter)
• Current Bases: New York City (Brooklyn) and Los Angeles
• Latest Public Appearance: Attended the 2023 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Cure Parkinson's event in November 2023 with Michelle Buteau
• Business Venture: Co-owner of Van der Most Modern, a mid-century modern furniture store in Bushwick, Brooklyn

The Documentarian Eye: Gijs van der Most's Photography Career

Van der Most’s artistic foundation was solidified at The Utrecht School for Arts (HKU), where he studied photographic design from 2000 to 2005. His work is rooted in the tradition of documentary photography, focusing on capturing authentic, often overlooked aspects of daily life and subcultures.

He is known for his ability to blend formal portraiture with candid, reportage-style photography, creating images that are both visually striking and deeply personal. His work has appeared in numerous high-profile publications, establishing his reputation within the commercial and editorial photography spheres.

Notable Editorial and Magazine Work

His impressive portfolio includes contributions to major international magazines. This editorial work showcases his versatility, moving seamlessly from celebrity portraits to lifestyle and documentary pieces. Key publications include:

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• Esquire
• Men's Health
• People
• LPV Magazine
• Mossless
• File Magazine

Deep Dive into Documentary Projects

The heart of Van der Most's artistic output lies in his self-initiated documentary projects, which often explore specific, niche aspects of American life and commerce. These projects demonstrate his commitment to long-form visual storytelling and topical authority.

• "I ♥ Runyon Canyon": One of his most recent and well-known projects, this body of work captures the unique subculture and personalities found at the famous Los Angeles hiking spot.
• "Used Car Salesmen": A visual study of the people and environment of the used car industry, highlighting the characters and the unique aesthetic of the lots.
• "Yard Sales": This project documents the intimate and eclectic world of American yard sales, offering a glimpse into domestic life and material culture.
• "Sign Jugglers": Focusing on the roadside performers who use signs to advertise businesses, this work turns a mundane job into a compelling visual commentary on labor and attention economy.

From Camera Lens to Danish Design: The Van der Most Modern Venture

In a fascinating pivot that showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for design, Gijs van der Most co-founded a vintage furniture business with his wife, Michelle Buteau. This venture, established after the birth of their twins, allowed the couple to collaborate creatively and financially outside of their individual industries.

Van der Most Modern: A Bushwick Treasure

The business, aptly named Van der Most Modern, is a high-quality antique and vintage furniture store located in the vibrant Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. The shop specializes in mid-century modern (MCM) design, a movement known for its clean lines, organic shapes, and functional simplicity.

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The store is particularly noted for its focus on Danish mid-century pieces, reflecting Van der Most's European heritage and a sophisticated curatorial eye. His background as a documentarian photographer informs his approach to the business; he curates the furniture with the same precision and vision he applies to his photographic compositions.

Topical Authority and Design Entities

Running a specialized design business requires deep knowledge of design history and specific entities. Van der Most Modern’s inventory often features:

• Danish Modern: A focus on designers from Denmark, known for teak and rosewood furniture.
• Mid-Century Modern (MCM): The influential design style from the mid-20th century.
• Vintage Furniture Sourcing: The complex process of finding and restoring authentic pieces.
• Bushwick Showroom: The physical location serving as a hub for New York's design community.

The Power Couple: Gijs van der Most and Michelle Buteau

Gijs van der Most's personal life is intrinsically linked to his marriage to one of the industry's most beloved comedians, Michelle Buteau. The couple met in New York City and married in 2010.

Their relationship is a compelling blend of creative fields—comedy and visual art—and has been a source of support for both their careers. Buteau often speaks affectionately about her Dutch photographer husband, bringing his name into the public eye, particularly after her success hosting the Netflix reality show The Circle and her various comedy specials.

The decision to open Van der Most Modern together was a strategic move to create a family business, allowing them to balance their demanding careers with raising their twins. This collaboration highlights a shared entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to building a life together that extends beyond the entertainment industry.

Future Endeavors and Enduring Influence

As of late 2023, Gijs van der Most remains active in both his primary fields. His attendance at the Michael J. Fox Foundation's Parkinson's event in November 2023 shows his continued presence in the public eye alongside his wife.

His enduring influence lies in his ability to maintain a strong artistic identity while embracing the world of commerce. Whether he is documenting the unique culture of Los Angeles streets or curating a collection of classic Danish design, Van der Most’s work is consistently marked by an appreciation for authenticity, a sharp visual sense, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His career serves as a powerful example of how a creative vision can successfully translate across multiple industries, from documentary photography to the specialized world of mid-century modern design.