ABOUT:
I’m David John, a contemporary artist based in the UK, specialising in original geometric abstract paintings.
My work explores geometry, colour, balance and perception. Combining structured forms with carefully considered colour to create paintings that are visually striking, yet offer a sense of calm and contemplation.
For me, geometric abstraction is about much more than shapes and colour, it is about the relationship between structure and emotion, and the way a carefully composed arrangement can change how we experience a space.
My paintings begin with an idea or visual concept and develop through a process of composition, colour selection and refinement. Shapes, lines and blocks of colour are carefully considered, with each element playing a role within the overall composition.
Although the finished paintings can appear precise and structured, there is an intuitive element to the process. I continually respond to the artwork as it develops, allowing the composition to evolve until the balance feels right.
Ultimately, my work is an invitation to pause, to look closely, to feel something, and to find stillness in a world that rarely slows down. I don’t offer answers or narratives. Instead, I create spaces for reflection, where meaning can be discovered rather than dictated.
MY STORY:
A JOURNEY BACK TO WHAT I LOVE
After leaving the military in 2010, I opened a small art business that allowed me to sell my paintings. But, like many people, life stuff took over and I stepped away from art to get a “proper job”.
Then, in November 2017, I suffered an unexpected brain injury that landed me in intensive care, with a 50% chance of survival.
Thankfully, I came through this with no major physical side effects, although I do now forget the odd random word!
I am a changed person though. More insular and reflective, and more comfortable with solitude and silence. But I’m happy with that change, it helped me grow, not only as an artist, but as a person.
I think that change is reflected in my work today. My paintings have become more about creating a sense of inner calm, thoughtful contemplation, and emotional depth.
I’ve always had a dream to become a full-time artist, something I imagined I’d pursue in retirement. I’m now 58, and that itch I’ve had since leaving the art world in 2012 has never gone away.
For years, I was content with my decision to step away from art because it was the right thing for my family at the time, and I don’t regret it at all.
But time passes, the kids grow up and move on, circumstances change, and eventually you start to think about what you want to do for yourself.
I’m finally able to bring that dream forward, and if life has taught me anything, it’s that you never really know what’s around the corner.
We spend far too much time putting things off, thinking there will always be time to do them later. But life can literally be too short not to pursue the things that matter to us, our passions, our dreams, and the things that make us happy.
So, I’m bringing the plan forward. I’m excited, a bit nervous, but most of all, I’m ready to finally do what I love.