YATES Studios

Y A T E S
S T U D I O S

Featuring
The Polynesian Pop Art of
Dirk

Born & raised in Palm Springs California, Dirk Yates has been a Polynesian Pop & tiki enthusiast since an early age. When his passion for art began to surface, it was only natural that this culture and famous town would be his inspiration.

An art filled journey began. As a corporate graphic designer, layout artist, illustrator and art director for over 19 years, Dirk has created artwork for Jaguar, United Parcel Service, FedEx, US News, 3M, SC Johnson and many more. In his leisure time, he researched tiki & tropical subjects and settings. After years of success in the corporate arena, Dirk set his sights back home to the sunny southern California Desert.

For 5 years Dirk has studied under world-renowned pastel & oil artist James Jensen. During this period his Polynesian Pop style really took shape.

Living and breathing the rich tiki and lounge culture of Palm Springs his entire life, Dirk’s artwork reflects this style. The influences of long since gone Palm Springs tiki landmarks like, Don the Beachcomber and Aloha Jhoe’s, are very predominant in his work.

Known for his warm welcoming Aloha spirit, Dirk is often found, in one of his trademark Hawaiian shirts, entertaining friends while he works in his Palm Springs, California studio.