David Burch‘s artistic journey is as intriguing as his vibrant and expressive paintings. Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, Burch’s story takes unexpected turns, leading him from a career in sociology to becoming a prominent abstract expressionist painter.
In 1967, at the age of 23, Burch earned his second Degree, First Class Honours in Sociology, from the University of Calgary. Subsequently, he packed his bags and ventured eastward to Toronto, where he spent 28 years of his life. Little did he know that this move would mark the beginning of his transformation into an art collector and later, a seasoned painter.
The turning point in Burch’s life came in 1995 when he made another significant move, this time to the bustling city of New York. His relocation to the cultural hub of the world coincided with a fascinating career shift. Hired as a Professor in cancer epidemiology at Columbia University, Burch became part of a team of scientists tasked with assessing the health consequences of the Chernobyl nuclear accident. This role led him to extensive travels across the former Soviet Union, including Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, and the Baltic countries.
During his travels, Burch discovered a hidden treasure – the rich artwork of Ukrainians and Russians, predominantly created by classically trained artists. The pieces were not only culturally significant but also available at remarkably low prices. As a result, Burch’s passion for art collecting was reignited, and his collection expanded with each journey.
In 1995, Burch took a pivotal step in his artistic evolution by enrolling in painting lessons at the Art Students League of New York (ASL). Here, he found himself under the tutelage of Mr. Ronnie Landfield, a great abstract expressionist known for his exploration of color. This mentorship sparked a flame within Burch, and he began his journey as a painter.
For more than a decade, Burch devoted three to four days a week to painting at the ASL, soaking in Landfield’s expertise and honing his own artistic voice. The mentorship proved invaluable, shaping Burch into the painter he is today. In 2007, after retiring from Columbia University, Burch returned to Canada, settling in Edmonton, Alberta. There, he transformed a spare bedroom into his studio, a sacred space where his artistic expressions come to life.
Two paintings, both titled “Sailor’s Delight,” encapsulate Burch’s artistic odyssey. The first, created in Edmonton circa 2007, swiftly found a new home in the collection of an art enthusiast. This oil on canvas, measuring 24″ by 36″ by 2″, is a testament to Burch’s early explorations into abstract expressionism.
The second “Sailor’s Delight,” a larger oil on canvas measuring 36″ by 36″ by 2″, began its journey in late 2023 and recently reached completion. This painting showcases the depth and complexity of his style. Each brushstroke tells a story, capturing the essence of Burch’s experiences. It is an abstract landscape/seascape in high grade Winsor Newton oils on gallery grade stretched canvas.
In conclusion, David Burch’s journey from academia to abstract expressionism is a tale of unexpected twists and artistic revelations. His story unfolds through the canvases of “Sailor’s Delight,” paintings that not only reflect his personal growth but also stand as vibrant testaments to the power of self-discovery through art. As Burch continues to paint in his Edmonton studio, one can’t help but be captivated by the deeply expressive nature of his work.
