Dominique Porter ’98

High School: Mayfield Senior School

College: NYU Tisch School of the Arts (received a BFA in Photography and Imaging) // Christie’s Education London (received and MLitt in Modern and Contemporary art accredited by the University of Glasgow)

How have you been spending your time now (professional and/or personal)?

I have recently launched a luxury pajama line called The Glad Hours which has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s been challenging, at times, but at the end of the day it’s something I can call my own and that makes it all worthwhile. In addition to my own business, I have taken up work at a biodynamic farm in Malibu while I pursue a certificate in Horticulture from UCLA extension. Prior to launching The Glad Hours, I worked at Gagosian Gallery Los Angeles after receiving my Master’s from Christie’s Education London in Modern and Contemporary Art. The Glad Hours is inspired in part by my studies and time in the art world. Taking cues from the lives of great artists and creatives, The Glad Hours aims to bring back a zest for life and not success (by societal standards) and to remind people to stop and smell the roses once in a while.

As you might gather, I am a creative thinker and have a lot of stuff whirling around upstairs. During my travels and studies, I found peace with my own creativity. Young adults feel pressure to choose, to fit in a box or to do what they “should.” Decisions at that critical time just as you begin adulthood can seem daunting and life-changing but it was important for me to realize that, yes, choices are important but the world is a big place and life is long. Choices shape your life but they do not dictate it. There’s beauty and excitement in the ability to adapt and change. This may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it is my own. I am proud of having found peace with myself, my creativity and change.

Be a good friend and do your Math homework.

I met my best friends at Mayfield. Actually most of my favorite people are MJSers! All 5 of my siblings, my oldest friends and now two of my nephews!

Friendship

Actions not words. The service, humility, and compassion that the Mayfield philosophy and community engender are values that I have carried throughout my life. These values have allowed me to connect with others in meaningful and powerful ways, no matter how much or little we have in common.