Dave Akehurst

I studied Art, first in my hometown of Derby and then for a degree in Fine Art at Portsmouth Polytechnic, in the early Seventies. Later I studied Theatre Design at Croydon College. Throughout the 80's l worked as an aspiring set designer and stage carpenter in various theatres and studios in London.

I came to Sheffield, from London, with my partner Melanie in 1988 to set up home in a city which for us had the right mixture of urban and rural. It's unique geography: the seven hills, "the golden frame" of its surrounding countryside and its post-industrial landscape were to become the inspiration for my paintings.

I am currently based in a studio at Bloc studios.

My first serious studies were founded on the exploration of abstract forms which soon became focused on urban landscapes and led eventually to reflections of my immediate surroundings. Sheffield's own distinctive scenery (which first attracted me to live here) continues to provide me with the views and settings for my paintings. The keynote of abstraction still lies at the heart of my work allowing a very personal take on picture making to evolve.

Contacts

Instagram @akehurstdave

Mobile: 07815 979284

davakehurst@icloud.com