David Kirkman
Please could you tell us about where you grew up and your upbringing.
I was born in 1985 in Rochford Essex, where I still live. I studied Criminology at the University of Leicester, where I met my wife. We have two children and a dog. My Grandad was an artist, and introduced me to painting and drawing at a young age. My Mum is also a local artist.
Did you have an interest in art as a child?
The most influential person was my Grandad. He was always trying new processes and loved all kinds of art. He taught me how to use oils, acrylics and watercolours and encouraged me to even enter my paintings into exhibitions at around 11 years old.
Did you have a formal art education or are you self taught?
I studied art up until A-Level but found formal art education limiting and didn't take it as a degree. I consider my self-taught as I really only developed my skills and current processes and style in my early 30's.
Was there a person or a place in your past that influenced you or you feel set you on the journey to where you are now?
I was a stay at home parent for the first 3 years of my eldest son's life. I decided to write and illustrate a childrens book for him. This reignited my love for art and also found it helped me manage my mental health. This led to me experimenting with abstractionism, friends started buying my pieces and then 2 years ago I decided to make it my job.
Whats the best thing about being an artist?
I love it when someone connects with one of my paintings. It is an incredible feeling to see someone light up because of something I've created. It really is a privilege.
And the worst?
You become an artist to spend time creating in your studio but end up spending longer learning and navigating social media. You could be the most talented artist in the world but if the algorithm doesn't like you then it won't be seen. However, it is a necessary evil. You also need to be good at promoting yourself and reaching out to galleries, exhibitions and competitions which does come with rejection. This is something you learn not to take to heart but it's never nice.
What has inspired or influenced you?
I've struggled with my mental health for many years so my work reflects the fact that I want to evoke joy, hope and self reflection in others. I want my paintings to inspire and reflect positivity. My creative process is about embracing the unknown and escaping into painting, being free to create and not worry about the next stroke or the finished piece. This creates a mindful experience for me.
What international art destination do you most want to visit?
I would love to visit and exhibit at the Other Art Fair Miami. I love colourful art and Miami is all about self expression and standing out. I would also love to visit the Straat Museum in Amsterdam which showcases large street art.
What work of art would you most like to own?
David Hockney Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)
Please tell us of your working environment?
I work from my home studio which allows me the space to create and store large pieces of work and provides me the convenience of painting at anytime. The space also allows me to show my work to collectors and photograph the artwork.
Please tell us a little of the processes involved in making your art?
I create intuitively therefore my process is based on mindfulness. I try to not plan or anticipate my next stroke or how the piece will finish up. This process is actually one of the toughest things about my work. To stop asking, 'what shall I do next' and just do it.
What's the most indispensable item in your studio?
I love to paint big so my most indispensable item would be my large Liquitex brushes.
Where are you finding ideas and inspiration for your work currently?
My latest collection is inspired by my love of scuba diving. These pieces explore the parallels between the feelings you get when diving to the emotions we experience in everyday life. Shining a light on embracing our vulnerabilities in order to experience real joy and hope.
If you weren’t an artist what would you be?
No idea! I would like to think a Formula 1 driver.
What advice would you give to those aspiring to make a living out of art?
Go in with your eyes open. Being a professional artist means you paint probably about 20% of the time, the rest you need to be a marketer, website builder, social media expert, track inventory, reach out to galleries, submit to exhibitions, deliver and frame pieces, invoice, build client relationships and the list goes on. It's harder work than you might expect.
What is the most important thing to know about you?
My work is a reflection of me, I suffer from ADHD and struggle with my mental health, which means life can be a struggle. It also means that I want my paintings to be bold, colourful, evoke positivity and self acceptance. I want to help people feel good in themselves, as I know that is not always easy.
Please tell us one unexpected thing about yourself?
I do a pretty decent Smeagle impression!
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