Born October 7th, 1962 in Rochester N.Y., formative years spent in Flint, Michigan from
1968-1980. Artistic talents recognized at age 8. Mostly self-taught, has technically
been a professional since grade school. His peers used to pay to draw cars, animals, and their favorite comic book characters.
David moved back to Rochester attended MCC and immediately got involved in
the local Art scene by doing art shows at MCC, Midtown Plaza, and the Annual Delta
Sorority Black Art Show. Mentored by then elder statesmen Calvin Hubbard and Levon
Shepard who help show him the importance of sharing knowledge and encouraging
other artists.
In 1990, David released his first published print “Endangered” which prompted him to
start touring major cities for the next 10 years. David’s work has been distributed and
purchased around the world including his signature image ‘Yes Lord’ which was one of
the hottest-selling ethnic prints in the world from 1997-99. After coming off the road in
2001 David focused on helping other artists and teaching youth about what it took to
be a dedicated artist. 2005 David opened his first gallery/studio in the Rochester area
and that same year revealed what would become the official portrait of Mayor Bill
Johnson made history by being the first African American artist and our
first African American mayor! That painting is on permanent display at City Hall’s
second-floor atrium.
David enjoys sharing his skills with anyone of any age that's willing to learning about
being an artist and gets joy from seeing that lightbulb moment when they see what
they can produce. David’s latest gallery location in Henrietta provides affordable rental
space for private events with a relaxing and culturally inspiring atmosphere to enjoy the
art of his and other local artists and former students. Services include day trips for
students to see someone from their own community doing what they love and
inspirational talks at schools. David also provides paint parties (Painting theHaygood
Way) and has expanded his artistic expression into live music (bassist) and
photography. He just believes Art can Save Lives and Inspire Us to be the Best version
of Ourselves!
