From the legendary Plaza Hotel to the glitzy Met Gala and exclusive parties in the Hamptons, Deanna First’s exquisite illustrations and live sketches have adorned some of the most vibrant events and venues. Hamptons Social caught up with the talented artist to delve into her recent projects, discover how she launched her career in New York City, and hear about her partnerships with some of the most iconic fashion brands in the world.
Can you tell us about your recent work creating enchanting illustrations for The Plaza Hotel?
I was ecstatic when The Plaza Hotel approached me a few months ago about redesigning their Champagne Bar menus. They wanted their existing photos of items on their menus turned into illustrations and I was so honored they thought of me for this special partnership.
I loved watching the behind the scene clips of you illustrating First Look departures at The Plaza on Met Gala Monday. Can you take us inside that evening?
Thank you, it has been one of my favorite moments in my career thus far! It felt so surreal — almost an outer body experience. When I’m illustrating I feel like I’m channeling…everything just flows effortlessly. One might assume it would be hard to concentrate with video cameras and lots of media present, but I’m great at tuning out all of my surroundings when illustrating live. It feels as if the person I’m sketching and myself are the only ones in the room. It’s a very intimate experience. Also, witnessing the gowns in person and capturing their essence was truly unforgettable. I originally studied Fashion Design and my senior collection that I sewed was purely evening wear inspired. Seeing the craftsmanship up close was magical. I would love to illustrate at more red carpet galas and runway shows, so this was a great step in the right direction.
Can you give us an overview of the different forms of art you create in addition to live sketching such as custom work, invitations, and book art?
Yes! I mostly work with marketing and PR teams when it comes to custom art. I’ve had my art blown up to create large scale backdrops for wall decor and window displays. I would actually love to even do a wallpaper collaboration in the future! I’ve created wall murals for Christie’s Auction House and Kendra Scott as well. Illustrated place cards are always fun if the client is looking for a personalized table setting. I’m exploring illustrating on plates as well, which could be something I offer in the future. I would love to team up with fashion brands to create limited edition artwork for prints for clothing collections in the near future! As far as book art, my most recent cover was for Pat in the City by Patricia Field who did all the costume design in Sex and the City!
How did you launch your career as an artist in New York City?
I’m originally from Cleveland, Ohio so launching a career in New York City as a full-time artist without any connections did not come easy. I started out as an assistant fashion designer at Ralph Lauren, J.Crew and Elie Tahari early on in my career. I wasn’t using my illustration skills and decided to change directions and focus on my art career. In the beginning I pivoted by taking on a job 3 days a week as a graphic designer at a yoga company as I built up my clientele. I’ve been full-time roughly 8 years now and have never looked back! Being an artist has been a goal since preschool so my younger self would be absolutely thrilled!
What art supplies do you like to work with when creating your illustrations? Where do you like to shop for your art supplies?
Watercolors, pens, etc. I’m old school. For my live sketch events, I gravitate towards colored pencils, Tombow and Copic markers, as well as colored pencils. I love watercolor, but I find the markers are quick-dry, and since they are water-based, they still give the illusion of watercolor. Blick Art Supplies in SoHo is my go-to, but I would love to discover smaller businesses that I could support. For sketching at home, Moleskine products are my go-to.
You have worked with so many iconic fashion brands. Can you tell me about some of the highlights over the years?
I’ve been privileged to be part of so many stunning events. I was actually the artist in residence at Tiffany & Co.’s flagship in New York City this year, where I illustrated jewelry pieces as well as the clients as a take-home gift. People end up framing the illustrations, so it is a great keepsake for guests that they can gift or keep for themselves. Another highlight was illustrating fashion icon Brooke Shields—she is so down to earth and humble! My absolute favorite collaborations, though, are sketching at events that advocate for pet adoption. All of my pets have been rescued, and it is a cause that is dear to my heart. I teamed up with Lara Eurdolian of @prettyconnected for her adoption senior runway event with @patriciafield at Flying Solo, celebrating her rescue @pompomcharlie’s 18th birthday. I am proud to announce all the dogs walking the runway show got adopted!
What brings you the most fulfillment in what you do?
I love seeing the reactions that guests have when I hand over my finished illustrations at events. It only takes around 4 minutes per sketch, so I feel it catches people off guard to see how I’m able to capture their essence in a short period of time. I always try to focus on people’s best features when I draw and want to make each guest leave the experience feeling confident.
Who are your artistic influences?
I look towards Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, Dior and Valentino. I love being inspired by runway shows, fashion campaigns and Parisian influences. As far as other artists for inspiration – I try to stay in my lane and purely focus on creating my own unique style.
Is there a specific moment that stands out as a personal triumph for you in the last few years?
I feel like every few years I go through a rebirth. As I continue to grow, I notice I align with different people and places. Finding comfort in constant change has helped me evolve spiritually and artistically. You wouldn’t think it, but I do spend a decent amount of time by myself. Training my mind to have faith over fear has been my biggest accomplishment these past few years.
“My style is always filled with a mix of fluidity and movement. I love to make the people and places in my artwork feel alive.”
How would you describe your artistic style?
I have a few different styles, depending on if I’m at a live fashion event where I only have a few minutes or I’m creating a custom commission from home, which can take all day. My style is always filled with a mix of fluidity and movement. I love to make the people and places in my artwork feel alive.
Favorite art museums in NYC and around the world?
The Neue Galerie New York is quite lovely and Café Sabarsky inside makes for a perfect treat after touring the museum. The National Portrait Gallery in London is also one of my favorites.
What do you enjoy most about spending time in the Hamptons?
I love the fresh air and slightly slower pace compared to the city. I immediately feel at peace when I’m there. It’s such a great reset away from the hustle culture of NYC.
Any future projects that you can share with us?
I have a potential upcoming television appearance I can’t wait to announce and a few other exciting partnerships world-wide that I’m excited to announce this year on my social @deanna_first.
[Photos and artwork courtesy of Deanna First]