David Michael Smith

David Michael Smith

David Michael Smith

Artist Statement:

My paintings and drawings are firmly based in classical rendering but incorporate elements of surrealism and the fantastic.  This arises from my desire to connect with the viewer on both a visual and emotional level. I have long been interested in the concept of beauty, in all its power, its varied forms, its seductive danger and pure innocence. My work is often characterized by a “beautiful” surface, which disguises a more unsettling subtext.

Painting is my way of writing a novel or making a movie. My work is strongly narrative, even if the story is not defined for the viewer. I don’t shy away from the dramatic or the sentimental as kitsch. In fact, I exploit it to tell a story and evoke an air of melancholy and wistfulness.

I am drawn to oil paint as a medium both because of its historical context and the lush surface that it affords. I take the time to make the surface seductively beautiful and often hand make elaborate frames so the work exists as an “experience”, rather than just a two-dimensional image.

My work follows a tradition of storytelling. I draw from several sources -- from historical figures and events to religious symbolism and contemporary pop culture. Each painting provides a glimpse into a darkly beautiful world where the viewer’s imagination is encouraged.

Images and text found here