Who is David Spencer?
I’m a 47-year-old West Australian mid-career abstract artist and happily married father of two little boys living in Walyalup (Fremantle) who enjoys painting bold colour, texture and a few beers on a Friday afternoon. I like creating unique, one-off paintings. I can’t stand repetition. I would like to be known for my exploration rather than any one given object or style. There’s nothing I’m bound to other than experimenting, so I can keep pushing and trying new things.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Unfortunately, I’ve been too trusting of others in my career and didn’t see the red flags. I’d definitely trust my gut more and hold people to account.
Who inspires you and why?
Traveling inspires me. I love seeing and experiencing new things. It all goes into my brain-soup and eventually comes out in my paintings as colour, texture and shape. I especially love abstracting a scene or scenario from those adventures, particularly when I’m titling the painting. I also like people’s stories and finding found objects on the ground.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m telling my children the truth about the fragility of this planet and encourage our family to be protective in protecting it.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Our favourite annual family holiday is a week on Wadjemup (Rottnest) The peace, the beauty. We have our own tropical, crystal clear water and clean beaches just 30 mins off the coast. It’s just a prefect little getaway.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
First stop is a swim at South Beach in the morning. Grab a coffee and breakfast somewhere in Walyalup’s West End. Stunning old heritage buildings to marvel at. Reminds me of being in Europe. An afternoon lunch at Capri Restaurant and then kick on at Running With Thieves brewery. Nice.
What are you currently reading?
I’ve recently become a board director at Artsource, so honestly, I’ve been reading the induction and governance manuals. Artsource is a great institution that provides support, opportunities, insurance and studios to local artists. I hope to offer an artist’s voice in the priorities of the foundation.
What are you currently listening to?
On heavy rotation is still Run The Jewels (RTJ4) and I love EDM artist edIT on SoundCloud. I love hearing new and original music. Don’t mind letting Spotify take me for a spin with some drum and bass and I’m an old-school hip hop fiend. Music plays an important part in my practice.
Happiness is?
Absolutely, unequivocally is sleeping in and a hard second is a hot curry. That aside, it’s my kids laughing.
What does the future hold for you?
After my upcoming 16th solo, Residence, I’m going to keep the moment and show some new paintings at Yallingup Galleries, whom I’ve recently signed representation with and then hopefully another solo show at Waldemar Kolbusz’s gallery in late 2022. Outside of art, it’ll be keeping my little family safe and happy!
David will present his 16th solo exhibition, Residence, at the Old Customs House, Fremantle: 16 – 18 October 2021. For more information, visit: www.spencertive.com or www.eventbrite.com.au for details.
Image: David Spencer – photo by Ma Tavish