The spaces in David’s pictures are generously filled up by the presence, energy and spirit of the human figure: A figuration that searches beyond the parameters of the canvas and paper; yearning to be liberated from the frame; investigating that other place beyond the senses and all that is tangible in this world. David uses his own body and flesh as the subject in his paintings and drawings, alongside observed and imagined flora and landscapes. David’s gaze is mostly introverted and directed inward, investigating that vast inner landscape that many call ‘the Soul’. The images are coming from ideas and experiences around queerness, ritual, meditation, dreams, transcendence, and the universal connectivity between everything corporeal and beyond.
David Gardner (b. 1987) studied Fashion Design at Central Saint Martins School of Art (2007-2011) and a Drawing Year Postgraduate at the Royal Drawing School (2018-19). He recently won the ACS Studio Prize and is currently working towards a solo show later this year in London. His artworks are held in the Royal collection, the V&A and private collections internationally.
David lives and works in London - alongside his studio practice he teaches for the Royal Drawing School.