Artist Statement
My work embodies a recreation of space derived from my own personal experiences. These spaces span several different mediums and focuses, from the recreation of physical spaces I have experienced in real life to abstracted memories and forms created through a process of expressionism. All of my work is linked through the investigation as to what drives me towards these spaces. My hope as an artist is that the recreation of these scenes and forms drives an entirely new conversation upon the viewer; one that does not necessarily correlate with my own but is instead original and special to the individual experiencing it.
One of my recent focuses has been within the theme of ephemerality relating to gentrification, specifically in the form of small and intimate urban spaces. As a native New Yorker, I have always had an interest in exploring authentic neighborhoods and the different cultures that created each urban scene. I am intrigued by the “structured chaos” that ensues in these culturally rich neighborhoods, and the original and beautiful characteristics that come from it. Oddly shaped and brightly painted storefronts bustling with crowds of locals, colorful signage, and graffiti are all inherent characteristics of these neighborhoods. The spaces I choose to paint symbolize a forgotten artistic freedom, expression, and creativity that many people have forgotten or take for granted. I am interested in questioning these characteristics in order to enhance my own practice. How does a graffiti artist create his own distinct style of typography, his own curves, edges, and shapes that are both original and attractive? How is Chinatown, with all of its polluted streets and decrepit markets, such a bustling and attractive urban environment? I believe that both of these questions find their solution within instinctual human creativity and interaction.
Bio
David Bransfield was born on Long Island in 1993 and has lived and worked in New York City since 2011. He graduated from New York University with a Bachelor Degree in Fine Arts, as well as a second major in Urban Design & Architecture. Bransfield was involved in several exhibitions during his senior year, including “New Sights, New Noise,” organized by Michael Stipe; “still,” his Senior Honors Studio exhibition curated by Ksenia M. Soboleva; and his senior thesis exhibition titled “-scapes.” Bransfield is currently working for an Architecture and Interior Design firm in New York City, and plans on pursuing a graduate degree in architecture while maintaining his artistic practice. He has an upcoming solo exhibition at the NYU Broadway Windows in September, which will feature several of his large urban landscape paintings.
Interview with the artist (PDF): David Bransfield
Selected Works
