Vito Giallo, a born-and-raised New York artist, evolved from one of the city's top antique dealers to a beloved figure whose clientele included the crème de la crème of New York society. His customers ranged from iconic figures like Elton John, André Leon Talley, Greta Garbo, Robert Mapplethorpe, Franz Kline, and Mark Rothko, to a daily visitor — none other than Andy Warhol.

In 1952, Giallo worked as an illustrator and graphic artist at Wolfgang Beck Studios, where he suggested turning Beck’s space into The Loft Gallery. This gallery hosted Andy Warhol’s first show, The Origamis, along with other commercial artists like Nathan Gluck — and, of course, Giallo himself. He became Warhol’s first apprentice and was the first to give Warhol a show in 1954.

Driven by a deep passion for antiques and their stories, Giallo eventually left the commercial art world and Warhol’s orbit to open a small shop on Madison Avenue across from the Carlyle Hotel. It quickly became a gathering place for artists, actors, politicians, doctors, and writers alike. A regular buyer from Sotheby’s and known for his impeccable taste, Giallo became the go-to source for the most unique fine antiques in New York.

Even at 94, Giallo remained active in the art and antiques scene. In September 2021, he partnered with Catbird NYC to create an ongoing limited-edition jewelry collection inspired by his New York lifestyle and personal style, which sold out with each release. In December 2022, his collection of prized antiques was made available on 1stDibs, the premier online marketplace for luxury goods. Throughout 2023 and 2024, The Vito Giallo Collection participated in a series of auctions with Sotheby’s, Bonhams, and Michaan’s Auction Houses. He also released his memoir, A Place to See and Be Seen, in collaboration with Catbird and Books Are Magic. The memoir, which showcases Giallo’s illustrations and chronicles his life in New York from the 1950s to the 2000s, is a must-read for anyone fascinated by art, history, and New York City culture.

The Vito Giallo Collection has been featured in The New York Times, Interview Magazine, The New York Post, Vogue, W Magazine, Elle, and NYFW.

In October 2024, Vito peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his loved ones and treasured possessions. But his legacy is far from over. Exciting new collaborations with artists are currently in the works — stay tuned for more updates!

Vito Giallo was truly a special New York treasure.