Another spotlight! This time David D’Andrea. Davids work is quietly psychedelic and subtly visionary. It’s beautiful to look at and stunning in it’s mastery of pen and ink technique and drawing style. But what draws the viewer in is the layers of meaning, at first a peaceful scene of nature, then you notice the skull and the animals seem intentionally placed in the frame as if they are trying to tell you something, you start to question what is being conveyed in the hidden layers of the work, this is the kind of art that opens your mind and consciousness. What is it all saying? Heres David in his own words to shed some light……
David D'Andrea
name:
David V. D’Andrea
age:
35
city:
Emeryville , CA.
At what age did you know you wanted to be a professional artist
My connection to underground culture crystallized when I started doing drawings under the influence of punk rock, skateboarding, zines etc. of the late 80s/early 90s. I had found a place where I possibly belonged, and saw that my contribution was to be visual art. I obsessed over xeroxed zines, album covers, band logos, and just started doing my own.
Did you ever consider any other career
I am a tradesman I guess, and I approach illustration in that way. My father and grandfather were plumbers. Something along those lines would be fine. I feel like, even if I had a basic trade, I’d have to satisfy my artistic vision in some form.
Who is/are you favorite artist/s? Why?
Takato Yamamoto, Kiki Smith, Alan Forbes, Harry Clarke, Roger Dean, Larry Rivers, Barron Storey, Rick Griffin, Ivan Bilibin, Barney Bubbles, El Greco, Brion Gysin.
What moves you to create psychedelic or visionary art?
I’m interested in nature, science, letterforms, graphic design, print making, and mark making. Once I filter these things through my vision, I guess the outcome is psychedelic.
I definitely make conscious nods to the artists of the 60s in certain pieces. It is one of the eras that speaks to me most strongly, and I think the general subject matter coupled with lettering style and layout, are signifiers in peoples’ heads of the psychedelic era.
Whereas I am equally inspired by early 1900s artists, such as Harry Clarke, who are incredibly psychedelic in a less recognized way.
I think that a psychedelic artist somehow communicates this vision from beyond the veil, which resonates with the viewer on a deep level. In my favorite “psychedelic” art there’s simultaneously heavy communication, abstraction, good design, and craft. Rick Griffin is the best example in my mind. There is a lot to aspire to in that.
I like that a large part of the process requires going inward, surfacing, and explaining the experience through visuals. Psychedelic art is at once extremely personal and hugely universal.
David D'Andrea Skelwreath
what is your favorite piece you’ve created? Why?
My favorite piece is usually the one on my drawing table!
What medium do you work in? What is your process to complete art?
The method of drawing is always determined by method of reproduction. Screen prints are always ink on paper or board.
Album covers or gallery pieces are more flexible. Anything goes.
What about being a professional artists do you find challenging? What do you find rewarding?
It’s all pretty rewarding. The biggest challenge is probably financial woes., but that goes without saying.
What is your favorite color. Why do you think it is?
Earthy green. I like mushrooms and moss.
Like any other field do you see yourself “retiring”?
I’ll keep working until either my hands or eyes give way.
Do you listen to music while you work? Who in particular?
Of course! Pandit Pran Nath, Ash Ra Tempel, Om, Mournful Congregation.
Do you have your own studio?
I have a studio, yes. There’s not much separation between my “everyday” life and work. I sleep under my drawing table.
David D'Andrea Sleepy Sun giclee
