5 Artists We Wish We Were Dating

Let’s face it; the art world is all about appearances. Our currency is aesthetics. Whether it’s the shiny surface of a painting, the structure and form of a sculpture, or the beauty of the philosophy behind a conceptual work, looks really do make an impression. And it’s not just the way the art looks either, it’s also what you wear to that art party, the make-up look you’re currently sporting, and that piece of guy candy on your arm. The ultimate guy for any gallerina is a hot artist to be seen around town with and, we’ve rounded up the five most handsome art boys we wish we were dating right now.
 
Nelson Makamo

South African Makamo has a smile to die for. He’s also designed a cover for TIME Magazine, and had studio visits from Oprah. Bonus points: he loves children too, creating many works of children in rural South Africa, who he believes “embody the peace and harmony we all strive for in life.” Swoooooon.
 
Oli Epp

This British artist has the cool factor in spades with his trademark uniform of a Nike cap and stripe trousers. His works are autobiographical, so maybe if the right gallery girl plays her cards right, she could find herself in one of his paintings.
 
Brandon Lipchik

Lipchik’s work explores sexuality and intimacy through the language of digital media. To be honest, we don’t really have to tell you how dreamy he is, the photographs speak for themselves.
 
Ronaldo Wiltshire

Who doesn’t love a guy who works with their hands? Wiltshire is an artist and pottery teacher. Passing on his gifts to others…soooo dreamy.
 
Jonathan Small

This artist will seriously boost your following on the gram, with his edgy, artsy posts that are sure to attract all your frenemies’ attention. Having recently graduated from London’s Slade School of Art, Small has that rare gift of model looks while also being an artist – i.e. a creator of beauty – himself.
 
Words by Lizzy Vartanian
Images via @nelsonmakamo, @oli.epp, @brandonlipchikstudio, @motionsofclay, @jonathansmall