Yorkshireman David studied first at Wakefield School of Art, followed by a post graduate diploma at Leeds College of Art. Moving south in the early 1960's, he completed an ARCA Printmaking degree at the Royal College of Art and spent many years teaching printmaking at the Central School of Art.

His early work included collages, mostly incorporating photographic references, producing “screen-print, large photo-screen canvasses and photographic installations”.

For some time now, however, drawing has been his focus, concentrating mainly on watercolours (also etching and monoprint) and often featuring landscapes, his methods recalling those of the 18th century theorist Alexander Cozens on how to form landscape compositions from initial random blots.

David's aim with his winning painting (p6) was to convey a strong sense of place, capturing the atmosphere and a moment in time – something clearly achieved with the peaceful blue/grey haze surrounding the village as it wakes from siesta to catch the evening sunlight, reflected in the soft yellows, ochres and terracotas of the buildings and dry soil. You can almost feel the sun's warmth and hear the cicadas.

The Competition's judges were looking for a work making the “most imaginative or otherwise impressive use of a waterbased medium” and his landscape is a worthy winner. A delighted David described his “marvellous” victory as “a fantastic boost”. So used to judging others (and for the Discerning Eye he and Tom Coates choose the regional prizewinners at the annual Exhibition), he appreciates how good it is to be recognised and supported. Having submitted works to this competition almost every year since its inception, a First Prize is a very good place to start!

 

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