David Ardley

David Ardley has been working on aluminium as a surface for his oil paintings for over 20 years. In that time he has developed and perfected the technique to create unique and inspiring artworks.

Ardley uses a multi-step process to create his pieces. The process begins with preparing the canvas shape and surface out of aluminium. The subject, frequently a waterscape, is then created using both scratching (etching) gestures on the surface of the aluminium, and the careful building up of layers in oil paint. Working on the metallic surface enables the artist to achieve shimmering and glistening effects across the artwork, which is further enhanced when the viewer moves past the piece.

Ardley is inspired by the connection we all share with the natural world, especially the Ocean. Ardley strives to convey this connection by creating immersive artworks that capture the experience of inhabiting nature. When viewing Ardley's pieces the feeling of swimming in the shallows, diving into the deep or riding a wave is conjured.

Ardley has received awards and accolades for his work including being awarded the NZ QEII Arts Council Grant in 1989, First Prize for Landscape at the Australian d’Arcy Doyle Art Award and the People’s Choice Award at the Swell Sculpture Festival. Ardley has also produced notable commissions including a large painted ceiling for a palace in the Ukraine. David Ardley's paintings hang in many private and corporate collections in New Zealand, Australia, Asia and Europe.

By painting and etching on aluminium, Ardley creates unique shimmering and glistening effects that capture light passing through water.

David Ardley is inspired by the connection we all share with natural world, especially the Ocean. Ardley strives to convey this connection by creating immersive artworks that capture the experience of inhabiting nature.