Hi Everyone,
Aspen has always been one of those places that continues to inspire me year after year. There’s just something about its mix of natural beauty, culture, and that small-town charm that makes it feel so welcoming.
I’m excited to take a look back at some of my favorite moments and memories from over the years in this special place.
It all began with my vintage-inspired Gray Malin in Aspen series released in January of 2020 in partnership with The Little Nell. I styled models in mid-century ski wardrobes, sourced classic props, and transported everything up the slopes to create a whimsical winter wonderland. To this day, it still feels like stepping inside a snow globe — and it remains one of my most beloved collections.
Next came Dogs of Aspen in 2022, which has become one of my most successful dog series and was featured on Good Morning America, a true career highlight.
To this day, Chairlift Pups remains my most popular print!
2022 also brought the debut of Snow Beach, a playful installation at the top of Ajax that transformed the slopes into a chic alpine beach club, complete with cabanas, beach chairs, and vibrant pops of color. It was such a fun way to reimagine Aspen’s après ski culture and share my creativity in a totally new format.
What made it even more special was taking the entire Gray Malin team on a trip to Aspen to experience it firsthand. It was such a fun bonding moment for all of us, and one we still look back on and cherish!
More recently, I captured playful lifestyle scenes at the Aspen Valley Polo Club. I brought together some of my favorite elements for this shoot — horses, polo, dogs, and a vintage Bronco. It was a dreamy alpine adventure!
Beyond the photography, coming to Aspen as a family is always such a treat. Watching our kids in ski school for the first time is a memory we'll always hold onto!
And now, I’m thrilled to share new Aerial Aspen Photography! This collection captures the beauty of Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, Ajax Mountain, and Buttermilk from a fresh perspective. From the energy of skiers carving through fresh powder to the quiet symmetry of trees in snow, these images are my love letter to a place that continues to inspire me year after year.
Credit: Elevate Magazine - Aspen Snowmass Sotheby's International Realty
I’m excited to share that I’ll be featured in the upcoming winter issue of Elevate Magazine, the bi-annual lifestyle and real estate publication produced by Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty, on news stands in late December! I talk all about my creative connection to Aspen and how the town continues to inspire my work and life. Here’s a small preview of our conversation:
Elevate Magazine: Aspen has clearly become one of your great muses. What is it about Aspen’s landscape, culture, or energy that continues to inspire your creative vision year after year?
Gray Malin: Aspen is incredibly unique in the value it brings to all who visit and reside in this special place. There is so much it offers, while it retains its charm as a small town. That value — outdoor activities, fashion, music, art, restaurants, family experiences — is unmatched and keeps Aspen feeling aspirational yet relatable.
Elevate Magazine: You’ve worked with some of the most iconic destinations in the world. In your eyes, what makes Aspen’s brand of luxury distinct?
Gray Malin: Aspen’s luxury is distinct because it’s so grounded. It’s not just about a five-star hotel or an exclusive restaurant — it’s a luxury that’s earned. It’s in the physical challenge of earning your turns on the mountain, the deep sense of community you feel in town, and the simplicity of spending time with family.
Elevate Magazine: What does Aspen mean to you personally?
Gray Malin: Aspen is a place that recharges my creative spirit and fills me with peace. From the locals you meet to the sense of kindness that envelops you, it’s a place where I’ve created so many memories with my family — it’s pure, unadulterated bliss.
Stay tuned for the full feature, coming soon!
If Aspen has been calling your name, now’s the time to answer — take home your favorite wintery print during our 30% off sitewide sale! And if you’re planning your own trip to Aspen, don’t miss myAspen Travel Guide for some of my favorite spots.
Cheers!
Xx,
Gray