"I truly believe that if one invests time and love, happiness and peace within self will soon follow. I strive to ensure that the YOÜ by Hü Gallery remains a space of growth and comfort. Where one can arrive as they are, become inspired to be their best self, and most importantly walk out feeling proud to be them."
Hubert Gamit is a barber, curator, cyclist, and founder of the YOÜ by Hü Gallery in San Francisco. We spent a recent afternoon with Hubert to learn about his approach to his craft, self expression, and community building––while seeing his well-loved ILE gear in its element. Check out our conversation below:
Hubert, tell us a bit about yourself, what you do for a living, and your interests outside of work.
Hello, my name is Hubert Gamit. I also go by SZRHND Hü, and I was born and raised in San Francisco. I operate the YOÜ by Hü Gallery in the city’s SoMa District. We showcase art as well as provide a curated barber experience. My late grandfather was also a barber and practiced his craft on the very same street as the gallery, so being able to operate here and carry on my family’s legacy is an honor I am extremely proud of.
The Gallery is meant to give back to my community and the people of San Francisco; it supports local artists and businesses by offering a platform and space to feel represented and seen. My barber services are meant to provide a relaxing ritual in one of the purest forms of human interaction amidst an age that’s continually becoming more technologically busy. Time is one of our most valuable assets, and I love being able to help my clients invest in themselves.
On top of what’s provided in the gallery, I love cycling and I am also a father. I obtained a track bike in 2012 which gave me my first taste of how fun it was to rip around the city. In 2020, I made the jump to road cycling thanks to fellow friends of ILE Jordan Yee, a designer, and Robert Gee, an incredible bike mechanic who’s been featured here before as well. Since then, climbing hills and flying down descents have allowed me to enjoy incredible views and have excellent meditation.
What’s the driving force behind YOÜ by Hü?
I’m passionate about helping others find self-expression and uplift themselves in their best light. My community can always rely on me to assist with instilling inspiration and motivation to tackle whatever may come their way. I strive to provide my clients comfort in being themselves, to remain unfazed by the pressure of societal norms, and to not feel pressured to be influenced by the latest trends just because it’s the current wave.
I truly believe that if one invests time and love, happiness and peace within self will soon follow. I strive to ensure that the YOÜ by Hü Gallery remains a space of growth and comfort. Where one can arrive as they are, become inspired to be their best self, and most importantly walk out feeling proud to be them.
What ILE pieces are you carrying? How do they complement your daily life?
The pieces that I use on a daily basis are the Work Apron for performing barber services, and the Default Mini backpack. I’ve had them for a few years now, and really love how they’ve been performing. The Work Apron’s waxed canvas keeps my clothes dry and excess hair away from places it shouldn’t be. The pockets allow me to keep all the tools I use close and accessible.
A great backpack is crucial for any commuter and my Default Mini is no exception––in fact, it’s the best bag I’ve ever owned. Its capacity is perfect for my daily needs getting to and from the gallery. The fact that it is waterproof and easy to clean on the inside makes it ideal for any situation. I appreciate ILE, they keep me in my bag at all times.
Check out Hubert and the YOÜ by Hü Gallery at:
www.youbyhu.com
@szrhnd.hu
@93hubert_
Photography by Vicken Donikian