HICKEY, DAVID

David’s artwork is eclectic in nature. This applies not only to the finished work but also the mediums being used. He’s always been drawn to search out natural elements which in turn often dictate the direction of creativity. New, re-cycled or often found metal is used. Some of the pine tree branches are pieces of metal from old abandoned kitchen stoves or watering troughs for cattle. Each piece is cut by hand using a plasma cutter, then sanded and burnished leaving some of the natural patina to enhance the overall appearance.

David’s paintings use a metal canvas as a starting point since working on a metal surface comes naturally to him and allows for the build up of successive layers of opaque and transparent paints. The work is then burnished using a metal die grinder. Finally, successive layers of paint might be added to complete the work. The metal surface provides David with a more flexible approach to the use of mixed media. The burnishing process had both a sense of control and uncertainty, it’s this combination that he finds rewarding. Often times something hidden underneath one layer is revealed anew.

In both the metal work and paintings David enjoys the process of transformation, of keeping something and at the same time letting go. Often he will strive for simplicity of presentation. He will work with the paintings final destination in mind, leaning towards a modern interpretation of content and colour.