Art that lives in
colour, texture,
and memory.
David Spencer is a Western Australian abstract artist based in Fremantle, with a creative practice spanning more than 35 years. Working across painting, sculpture, and public art, he draws inspiration from memory, travel, and the unique landscapes of Western Australia. His work is recognised for its bold use of colour, rich layered textures, and intuitive compositions.
Featured artworks
2026
Mixed media on board [Redux]
150cm x 189cm
Painted over an old piece from 4 years ago. Just wasn’t working, the intent was right - but I think I was pretty knackered and force pushed it into something that didn’t really look resolved.
Anyway, I peeled the onion a bit and attacked it with fresh ideas from my trouble sleep. Lots of delicious Australian bush yellow oil washes and some happy times on a grinder. I’m working towards my next solo early 2027 and it’s all about parenting and technology - like, bloody doom scrolling. Did you know that in an hour, the average punter can flick through anywhere between 600 - 1200 images or videos! Crazy what that’s doing to our brains. So much input.
The little blue grinds represent the swipes (there’s 407 on this painting alone) and the red line is everyone’s ‘redline’. That trip of guilt knowing you’re wasting time.
2023
Mixed media on canvas
163cm x 204cm [Redux]
Exhibiting at Nathan Day Gallery, Margaret River
The day before we left on on 2 week caravanning trip, Leo caught Covid. So the drive up to Exmouth was pretty special to say the least. We all ended up with it, but Oscar was completely asymptomatic and Leo wouldn’t care if his leg was missing. Nothing would keep him still, especially riding his bike.
Exmouth and Ningaloo was amazing and a story for another day, but it was on the way back we stopped in Kalbarri. One evening we grabbed some beers, local fish and chips (which was surprisingly very average) and headed to Pot Alley. A recommended spot for twilight.
I loved watching the huge slow moving waves bash the coast line. The warm evening gave that extra sensory lift as the stunning sunset colours varnished the rocky cliff face. So many contrasts and contours. I really love rugged Western Australia.
We sat for a while taking it in.
2024
Mixed media on canvas
120cm x 180cm
A sudden jolt of inspiration amidst the relentless rain sparked my obsession with matches in this painting. Perhaps it was the need for warmth in a cold studio, but the match-shape began to recur within the artwork.
Seeing the motif emerge was exciting, so I intentionally depicted the life and stages of a match, focusing on its colors and shape.
With a sense of fulfillment, I knew "Playing with Matches" was the perfect name. I hope it ignites the imaginations of all who see it, just like the small flame that ignited in me.