Hidden Meanings In Gossip Girl

The real-life art portrayed on the CW’s Gossip Girl is “a celebration of having lived on Staten Island,” according to the 60-year-old painter who created the works:

The swirling watercolors featured in the CW hit are the work of artist Rita Wilmers — a retired fashion designer who has quietly channeled her love of the arts into a second career from her home in Forest Hills, Queens.

One of Wilmers’ paintings, “Three of Hearts,” was the focus of an episode in October and it makes a reappearance in tonight’s episode, “Hi, Society,” in which boho mom and artist Alison Humphrey has an opening at her hipster husband Rufus’ Brooklyn art gallery.

“‘Three of Hearts’ marks the end of one part of my life — my 32 years on Staten Island — and the beginning of a new life in Forest Hills and a new [more abstract] art style,” Wilmers said. “It’s a celebration of having lived on Staten Island, saying goodbye, and moving on.”