The Grand Tourist with Dan Rubinstein

One of the most iconic fashion designers in Britain, Dame Zandra Rhodes has made a name for herself by filling the world around her with color, joy, and plenty of eye-catching patterns. On this episode, Dan speaks with the textile-loving designer about her early days in London, how Diana Vreeland of Vogue changed her life, The Fashion and Textile Museum (which Rhodes founded), and her own unstoppable sense of personal style. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As an artist and designer who creates radically joyful and introspective works, Nick Cave is a leading voice in America today. To coincide with his retrospective at New York’s Guggenheim Museum and his new collection of textiles for Knoll, Dan speaks with Cave about his youth, how he created his first Soundsuits, his work with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and his ongoing quest to explore themes of social justice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by Viking, Dan visits Antarctica on a two-week cruise. From icebergs and penguins to kayaks and submarines, the bucket-list-worthy enterprise leaves an impression second to none, and he learns about the ins and outs of the White Continent from scientists, guides, journalists, and explorers, including legendary adventurer Ann Bancroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

British illustrator, designer, and tastemaker Luke Edward Hall has applied his unique sense of style to everything from cardigans and interiors to ad campaigns and, his latest, home fragrances. On this episode, Dan speaks with the young visionary about his early days studying fashion, his life in the English countryside, his new fashion brand, and what makes the Instagram star truly happy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the world of publishing, the name Assouline is synonymous with glamour. Run from New York by French couple Prosper and Martine Assouline, along with their son Alexandre, the company has produced thousands of coveted books on everything from fashion and travel to fine art and design. On this episode, Dan speaks with this trendsetting trio on how their business began, why money has nothing to do with style, and whether the metaverse might be the next hot destination for the fashionable set. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The world of fine dining is undergoing a historic transformation in the face of a changing planet. Chef Norbert Niederkofler is one of those groundbreaking legends who is already way ahead of the curve. On this episode, Dan speaks with Norbert about how he turned a former pizzeria into a dining destination with three Michelin stars, his latest venture in Milan, how he pioneered zero-waste cuisine, and the future of food. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some designers defy all categorization. Italian-born, London-based Martino Gamper is one of those talents who brings originality to everything he does. On this episode, Dan speaks with Martino about his famed “100 Chairs in 100 Days” project, his youth as an apprentice cabinetmaker, his latest collaborations with Dior and others, and his issues with the current culture of the design world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New York’s R & Company is a leading authority on 20th century and contemporary design, but it didn’t start out that way. On this episode, Dan speaks with gallery cofounders Evan Snyderman and Zesty Meyers on how the former glass artists transformed their humble vintage business into one of the world’s leading galleries, and how they nurtured the burgeoning careers of radical talents such as Katie Stout, the Haas Brothers, Rogan Gregory, and Serban Ionescu.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Great design should always elevate and inspire our everyday lives. On this special episode sponsored by Duravit, Dan speaks with three visionaries: Simone Rothman of FutureAir, a startup working with Ross Lovegrove to revolutionize indoor air quality; product designer Sebastian Herkner, a leading voice of his generation; and architect Amanda Levete, whose award-winning Maggie’s Centre in the UK has created a tranquil, healing space for cancer patients. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some estates are steeped in legend. When it comes to Knole in Southeast England, the place is bursting with provenance and character. On this episode, Dan speaks with Robert Sackville-West, whose family has lived at Knole for generations, as well as interior designer and photographer Ashley Hicks. The two have collaborated on a new tome that brings Knole to life, guiding readers through this magical place that inspired Virginia Woolf’s Orlando. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Architect Moshe Safdie has experienced an unequaled life in architecture, from his younger years as a radical talent to today as a builder of important projects from Singapore to Idaho. On this episode, Dan speaks with the legend about his new autobiography, what it was like dealing with setbacks on some of his forward-thinking concepts, his time working for Louis Kahn, and his thoughts on how his profession can meet the challenges of the 21st century. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Artist Larry Bell is an American legend. His groundbreaking works, including his signature glass cubes, have dazzled collectors and critics for decades. His latest show, at Hauser & Wirth in Los Angeles, explores Bell’s work alongside that of his friend and compatriot, the late John Chamberlain. Dan and Larry speak about his struggles in art school, how he started experimenting with industrial machinery, his memories of the ’60s art scene, and what Chamberlain was like as a friend. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pritzker-winning architect Shigeru Ban has designed everything from museums and private homes to churches and emergency shelters. In his latest book, he flaunts his incredible portfolio of projects that use timber in extraordinary ways. On this episode, Dan speaks with the famed creative and others on his team to discover what makes Ban tick, his early career, and why timber might just be the building material of the future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dyed-in-the-wool Parisian Vincent Darré embodies all of the best qualities any interior designer should aspire to: an original point of view, a network of incredible friends and clients, and oodles of great taste. On this episode, Dan speaks with the former fashion designer on why he hates being called a dandy, his imaginative new book, what it was like working for Karl Lagerfeld, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many of us used our time during the pandemic to put our hands into the soil to do a bit of gardening. On this episode, Dan explores what to plant, how to adapt our yards to a changing climate, and why the meadow is hotter than ever with three experts: Clare Foster of House & Garden, former Martha Stewart Living features editor Melissa Ozawa, and award-winning landscape designer Luciano Giubbilei. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Long considered the ultimate travel experience, the safari is both a luxury and a commitment. On this episode, as part of our three-part series sponsored by Janus et Cie, Dan speaks with four guests who explain the ins and outs of this incredible kind of holiday, and how to do it while respecting the environment and the communities that make it possible. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special three-part series, sponsored by Janus et Cie, The Grand Tourist heads outside for relaxation, adventure, and a bit of enlightenment. This week, Dan speaks with two style-driven entrepreneurs who know how to entertain outdoors. First up is Rebecca Gardner of House & Parties, who is the ultimate Southern hostess, followed by American-born, Milan-based JJ Martin of the ultra-chic fashion and lifestyle brand La Double J. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A food legend in every regard, chef and restaurateur Thomas Keller has elevated the American dining experience for decades. On this episode, Dan hears from Keller about how he got his start, why he cooks in the first place, the genesis of The French Laundry and Per Se, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and how he makes his coffee in the morning. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While many in the luxury watch world follow strict rules, this watchmaking visionary asks “Wouldn’t it be cool if…?” On this episode, Dan speaks with the owner, founder, and creative director of MB&F, Maximilian Büsser. The creator of sought-after and wildly inventive timepieces, Max explains how he got started, his development process, and his theories on why mechanical watches have never been in greater demand. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world seemingly gone mad, optimism can be in short supply. On this episode, Dan speaks with groundbreaking visionary Bruce Mau. The subject of a new documentary on his life and career, Mau talks to Dan about his Canadian roots, his empowering museum show Massive Change, and how a book with architect Rem Koolhaas changed his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A legendary hotel on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Le Sirenuse combines traditional flair, incredible views, and a sense of style that can’t be matched. On this episode, Dan speaks with the hotel’s enterprising owner Antonio Sersale about his storied family business and the origins of this heavenly vacation spot near Naples. And later, Dan chats with noted artist and die-hard fan of Le Sirenuse Alex Israel, who was commissioned to create a site-specific installation at the hotel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While everyone today has a camera in their pocket, a new generation of fine art photographers are taking their art form to new heights, often shunning digital technologies. On this episode, Dan speaks with Paul Mpagi Sepuya, a dynamic fine art photographer based in Los Angeles. Helping to add context is Courtney Willis Blair, partner at the leading gallery Mitchell-Innes & Nash, which recently exhibited Sepuya’s work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the age of the pandemic, nearly everyone fantasizes about moving to a bigger house. A lucky few have realized the ultimate renovation challenge: the French château. On this episode, Dan speaks with interior designer Timothy Corrigan, who has owned many, as well as Anna and Philipp Mayrhofer, two vlogging former Parisians who are transforming a charming château in Normandy into a guesthouse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode sponsored by TEFAF, Dan highlights five outstanding pieces from the renowned art fair in Maastricht, from a pair of armchairs that once belonged to a master of 20th century design to a legendary Dutch drawing discovered at a small auction house in Massachusetts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an era of rapid cultural and technological change, editors like Karla Martinez de Salas are keeping fashion magazines alive and kicking. On this episode, Dan speaks with Karla about how she started her career, how she arrived at Vogue Mexico and Latin America, and what kind of perfect day in Mexico City she would plan for her boss, Anna Wintour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heavenly churches, monastic fashion boutiques, elegantly simple homes, and objects that whisper instead of shout; the works of British architect John Pawson are the textbook definition of great design. On this episode, Dan speaks with Pawson from his studio about his early days soaking up inspiration in Japan, how Calvin Klein changed his life, where he gets his signature white shirts, and advice on how you can convince him to design your next house. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chef Daniel Boulud is one of the leading names in food today, with an empire of restaurants and businesses that have spread his brand of French cooking around the globe. On this episode, Dan speaks with Boulud about his childhood on his family’s farm in France, what it was like running Le Cirque in the 1980s, and what makes a great burger. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As one of the leading design curators in the world, MoMA’s Paola Antonelli has consistently led the global conversation in her field. On this episode, Dan speaks with Antonelli about her new book with critic Alice Rawsthorn, “Design Emergency,” getting the job that would change the course of her life, and how design can truly build a better future. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raised in Venice and now living in Stockholm, product designer Luca Nichetto is one of the leading voices of his generation. With the release of his first-ever monograph cataloging 137 works of design, his profile is on the rise. On this episode, Dan speaks with Nichetto about starting his professional life playing basketball, selling sketches as a youth to make ends meet, and what it means to be an Italian designer today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the owner and CEO of H. Moser, Edouard Meylan is an innovator and a leader in the world of fine watchmaking. On this episode, Dan speaks with the debonair Swiss talent on how his family revived a brand that dates back to the 1820s, how he uses innovative materials to make waves in a notoriously selective industry, and how a special watch he launched challenged the idea of “Swiss made” that used actual Swiss cheese. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

American architect Robert A.M. Stern is a legend, not only for his impressive portfolio, but for his ideas, critiques, and contributions to the craft of architecture itself. On this episode, Dan speaks with Stern about his new memoir, the birth of postmodernism, his unlikely friendship with Zaha Hadid, and much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode, Dan speaks with three legendary critics of the award-winning New York Magazine: Jerry Saltz for art, Wendy Goodman for design, and Adam Platt for food. The witty trio chat with Dan about the fine art of criticism, how their beloved city has evolved during the pandemic, and their advice on the best New York City has to offer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

British artist Antony Gormley has created epic sculptures, intimate and hauntingly existential objects, and installations that have challenged how we experience art. On this episode, Dan speaks with the widely exhibited and celebrated talent on the meaning of his work, his storybook journey to success, and his advice for young artists today. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dutch designer Hella Jongerius is one the most respected talents in the industry, and her mastery of form and color has influenced the design world in immeasurable ways. On this episode, Dan speaks with the legend about how she got started, her theories on color, and why we should rethink the concept of ownership to become more sustainable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

American painter David Salle has been a creative force for decades. As a part of the Pictures Generation, his colorful and magnetic canvases are explored as part of a major retrospective at the Brant Foundation. On this episode, Dan speaks with David about how he studied under John Baldessari, why he thinks artists never retire, and why he chose to create his first NFT. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The New York Times once said Bjarke Ingels might be “the most important architect you have never heard of.” Today, he’s a household name. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Danish starchitect about how he got his first job working for Rem Koolhaas, how he created his legendary “archicomic” that changed the discourse on design, and how architecture can turn fiction into fact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the founder of Nilufar Gallery, Nina Yashar is a leading voice in collectible design. Through her many programs, exhibitions, and curated spaces, she has the ability to elevate forgotten names from history and make the careers of contemporary talents. On this episode, Dan chats with Nina about her youth as a radical feminist, how she became lifelong friends with Miuccia Prada, and the most beautiful homes she’s ever seen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some companies can last for decades but a rare number last for centuries. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the legendary design brand Fritz Hansen, Dan speaks with two guests who know the legacy well: former head of design Christian Andresen, and Carla Sozzani, founder of Milan’s famed concept shop 10 Corso Como. On this episode, they explore what made the Fritz Hansen company so impactful, the influence of Arne Jacobsen, and why Carla believes you should never hire someone to design your home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Few magazines have been as influential in the past decade as The Gentlewoman. Led by former curator Penny Martin, each issue presents a smart and subtly stylish vision of life and creativity. On this episode, Dan speaks with the Editor-in-Chief about the magazine’s latest project, “Modern Manners: Instructions for Living Fabulously Well,” an indispensable book on how to navigate contemporary life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the artistic director for watches and jewelry for Louis Vuitton, Francesca Amfitheatrof creates objects of design that last for generations. On this episode, Dan speaks with the artist and entrepreneur about her fascinating career, the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way, her own brand called Thief and Heist, and her showstopping high jewelry pieces for Vuitton. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many designers leave their mark, but Philippe Starck blazes a trail and constantly sets new standards for what design can accomplish in our lives. On this episode, Dan speaks with the famed French talent about his awkward teens, why he’ll never have dinner with a client, and why you’ll never see his home published in a magazine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For more than 100 years, the American Academy in Rome has been a place where the best and brightest rub elbows, exchange ideas, and grow their careers. On this episode, Dan speaks with the institution’s leader Mark Robbins and Rome Prize recipient and artist Sanford Biggers about the importance of collaboration, the decline of empires, and how this incredible institution began. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Throughout her inspiring career, interior designer India Mahdavi has created restaurants, shops, and homes bursting with a sophisticated palette of hues that has become her signature. On this episode, Dan speaks with this highly respected talent about her unique upbringing, how she designed the most Instagrammed restaurant of all time, and how the imaginary world she created as a child inspires her to this day.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The incredible experiences of Catherine Dior, sister to fashion designer Christian Dior, is one that has gone largely untold for decades. On this episode, Dan speaks with author Justine Picardie on her latest book, “Miss Dior: A Story of Courage and Couture” that dives into Catherine’s heroic legacy, her actions as part of the French Resistance, and how she survived the unimaginable.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The colorful, surprising, and delightful worlds that Jorge Pardo creates defy categorization. In this episode, Dan speaks with the boundary-crossing artist on his latest show, his first major monograph, how he translated his oeuvre into a French hotel, and how he really spent his “genius grant” from the MacArthur Foundation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it like to live and entertain at a major English estate? In this episode, Dan speaks with Lady Carnarvon of Highclere Castle. But to many of us, we know it as the location of Downton Abbey. Dan quizzes Lady Carnarvon on her new book that takes readers through all the ins and outs of maintaining the epic 1,000 acre property, from gardens and follies to animals and their very own gin. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Season 2! In this episode, Dan meets an architect who has left an indelible mark on the worlds of art and design, Annabelle Selldorf. With a portfolio that includes everything from museums and galleries to townhouses and exhibition design, Selldorf is embarking on her latest triumph: her newly refreshed family furniture business called Vica. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What can the objects of the ancient world teach us about today’s art world? And vice versa? On this special episode sponsored by TEFAF, Dan meets with two leading dealers showing at the online edition of the legendary art fair: Sean Kelly, who works with the likes of Marina Abramovic and Kehinde Wiley, and antiquities expert Charis Tyndall of London’s Charles Ede Gallery. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With his first major museum exhibition in North America underway, the iconic fashion photographer Paolo Roversi is taking a well-deserved bow. Dan speaks with the legendary artist on how he takes his alluring images, the future of his craft, and what he really thinks of Instagram. But first, Dallas Contemporary executive director Peter Doroshenko explains the maestro’s secrets, and how fashion photography is gaining greater acceptance in the art world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As a landscape architect and garden designer, this week’s guest Tom Stuart-Smith will change the way you think about green spaces. The London-based talent has won numerous gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, has created spaces for the Queen, and now has his first major monograph that highlights his stunning portfolio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.