The medieval image-maker was a versatile craftsperson whose role was to make the world visible through images, at a time when writing was accessible only to a minority. It was a practice of openness, transmission, and observation of the world — one that some seek to carry on today. Moving freely between contemporary and ancient techniques, they seek to share, to make visible.
He seeks to make things visible
Since childhood, David has been fascinated by image-making. Drawing, comics, graphic design — he explores the many forms of visual expression. He likes to write without words, to make settings speak, to read landscapes.
After a degree in graphic design and a DNAT at the Épinal School of Fine Arts, where he discovered screen printing, it was at the Imagerie d’Épinal that the image-maker within him truly began to take shape. There, he learned how to make images, how to bring them to life. Nourished by the history of the place, he learned various printing techniques. He discovered lithography, typography, and stencil work. By using each method according to its particular qualities, he now creates rich and varied limited editions: the clean precision of screen printing for flat design, the textures of linocut for more lively images.
A versatile craftsperson
In his work, David moves skillfully across eras. He takes advantage of contemporary graphic techniques while preserving the attentiveness to material of earlier times. He draws on the history of image-making to feed his own narratives.
In his studio, one finds a myriad of printing “machines” — fascinating objects that bear witness to the evolution of their art. One could simply observe his two 19th-century lithographic presses or his early 20th-century typographic press, but it is when they play their symphony under the direction of their conductor that one understands the meaning of their existence. A melody that David seeks to share.
A practice of openness and transmission
David lets himself be guided from encounter to encounter. Always ready for new projects, he creates, makes, and prints for others. From graphic and visual creation to printing, his collaborations are numerous and varied. He uses each exchange as an opportunity to learn, explore new possibilities, and grow in his practice.
Many artists have collaborated with David, but not only artists. He also leads numerous workshops to share his knowledge with a wide range of audiences. His teaching allows participants to discover his love for image-making.
Beyond workshops, David wants to make his studio a space open to everyone. He welcomes and supports those who wish to discover or practice screen printing, lithography, or typography. His aim is to make his machines available in order to share his art.
A person who makes images
David’s encounters and experiences have opened many doors for him. Today, in his studio, he is ready to take on new challenges. He wants to explore new horizons, play with new constraints, and test new supports.
For David, heritage is of primary importance. There is no doubt that at Motoco, within the former DMC industrial site, he will find inspiration for his new projects. Sign painting? Comics? Whatever the path, he will surprise us.
Photo credits: Tom Clément, Lisa Jaeggy and David Allart
