David Watson unveiled his ‘High Tide’ showcase at The Wyllieum last weekend.
The 42-year-old says he started out as a cabinet-maker five or six years ago and has been honing his skills ever since.
David Watson has unveiled his first solo exhibition at The Wyllieum (Image: Alex Craig)
High Tide brings together a selection of artworks he has assembled, exploring themes of ‘order, material and stillness’, and offers a ‘quiet counterpoint’ to what he describes as ‘a noisy world’.
David said: “People should come along to the exhibition just for a bit of peace.
“That’s what it’s about for me.
“It’s about having a little break from what’s going on out there in the world.”
David said his work emphasises craftsmanship, structure, and the natural qualities of materials, and says a lot of his practice has been shaped by Inverclyde itself and the Firth of Clyde.
He added: “The changing light, industrial history and steady presence of the water have all played a significant role in informing the atmosphere and sensibility of the work on show.”
David grew up in Northamptonshire and moved to Musselburgh to take on an apprenticeship in cabinet making.
He lived in Edinburgh for a decade before moving to Glasgow, and made his way further west to settle in Gourock around 10 years ago.
When David worked in Edinburgh, he shared a creative space with around 25 other makers.
David Watson has unveiled his first solo exhibition at The Wyllieum (Image: Alex Craig)
After he settled in Gourock, he realised that working with others in that kind of setting was something that could work in Inverclyde, so he set up Greenock Workshops on Terrace Road.
David added: “There are so many artists working in Inverclyde and there’s always a lot going on.
“I’m surrounded by artists. There are around 15 of us in the space now.
“Having all of the art and creativity around me inspired me to get started in art.”
David said he’s very proud to be presenting his first solo exhibition in a Greenock venue that showcases the work of one of his favourite artists.
He added: “It’s a privilege to show my work at the Wyllieum. We’re very lucky to have a fantastic space like this in Inverclyde.
“George Wyllie is such an inspirational character to me.
“The lightness and humour with which he approaches his art while tackling very serious topics makes it accessible to everyone.
“He just seemed to be having fun. I think we need a little bit more of that in the world just now.”
David says he feels an affinity with George in terms of his career progression.
He added: “I connect with the fact that he started making art in his 40s after a career as a welder.
“I’ve been a cabinet maker for almost 25 years, and I feel like I’m just getting started.
“I can’t wait to do more.”
High Tide runs until February 12.