David Humphrey Paintings

David Humphrey is an American artist known for his multifaceted approach to painting that incorporates varying styles and visual languages. Born in 1955, he has been a significant figure in the contemporary art scene since the late 20th century. Humphrey grew up with an interest in art and pursued his education in the field, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 1977 and later a Master of Fine Arts from New York University in 1980.

Following his academic training, Humphrey quickly immersed himself in the New York art world. His work is characterized by a unique blend of figuration and abstraction, often employing a bright and bold color palette. His paintings frequently explore themes of psychology, personal narrative, and cultural critique, sometimes incorporating elements of collage or mixed media. Humphrey’s artworks are known for their layered complexity, where images and symbols interplay with painterly gestures to create rich, associative narratives.

Throughout his career, Humphrey has received numerous accolades and has been awarded prestigious grants and fellowships, including those from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Guggenheim Foundation. His influence extends beyond his practice as a visual artist; he is also recognized as an articulate critic and writer. Humphrey has contributed essays and reviews to art publications and has served as a faculty member at various institutions. His teaching career includes a long-standing position at the Yale University School of Art, where he has influenced many emerging artists.

Humphrey's work has been exhibited widely in the United States and internationally. His paintings are held in the collections of major museums such as the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He continues to live and work in New York City, contributing to the ongoing dialogue of contemporary art through his painting, writing, and teaching.