David Cottingham
Biography	Artwork

DAVID COTTINGHAM ABSTRACT PAINTINGS

"Art is the poetic liberation of the spirit. From early years I have loved the sensual and spiritual in art and in the modern world from Moore to Hoyland and from Caravaggio to Matisse".

Artist Curriculum Vitae

David Cottingham graduated from St Martin's School of Art in London, where he studied with William Tucker, Phillip King RA and Sir Anthony Caro. He is now a London-based painter and has developed a large body of work in both the figurative and abstract traditions.

He has exhibited in New York, Chicago, London and Rome. Commissions include work for Cartlidge Morland, London featuring the London Light series.

The artwork ranges from landscape-influenced, abstract paintings to large figurative, dance-inspired, works on canvas. Also limited edition prints and drawings in all media

He has his works published in four books: "Life Drawing Class" is published in the UK by Harper Collins and in the US by Watson Guptill. "Draw and Sketch Figures", published in the UK by Search Press and in the US by North Light Books. "The Encyclopedia of Drawing Techniques" published in the US by Running Press "Figure Drawing" Published in the US by Barnes and Noble.

Artist Statement

My work is concerned with the two great subjects of art, the human body and the landscape. It draws on many influences from nature to dance, photography, astronomy, and music. The abstract paintings are inspired by landscapes, cities, spaces, memories and the emotional power of color and light; they are usually grouped in series. The figurative based paintings are studies of dance, movement or gesture. They are large life-size works inspired by contemporary dance and individual dancers. Their aim is to express the essence of the body in motion. I believe in the art of painting and drawing as a vehicle for a poetic and evocative expression of the world. For me with their diversity, the abstract and figurative traditions still resonate and seek new paths in the 21st century.