David Batesb.1952

Artist Background Born in Dallas, Texas in 1952 Living artist Bates’s paintings, sculpture, and

works on paper explore his deep affinity for the South, its people, and the physical and cultural landscape

Especially the Grassy Lakes region of western Arkansas and the Texas Gulf Coast

Daniel Bates’ Studio1981

Photograph of sculpturesFigures are carved and painted wood figures and animals, constructed and

painted abstract sculpture in metal, and ceramic sculptures.Dallas

Bates blends the influence of European and American modernists with his lifelong love of folk art.

Noted realistic figure and narrative painter at a time when Abstract Expressionism was all-prevailing

There is also an influence from his interest in wildlife.

Usually paints in oils

Fourth of July1983

Oil on canvas72 x 62 in.

Bates chronicled everyday life from scenes at home to scenes at state fairs and local restaurants. His style combined increasing mastery of technique and vivid patterning with an earnest and gentle humor.

BarbequeOil on canvas

198296"H x 76"W

Bates is crazy about dogs and he loves to capture them when they are at their warm-nosed goofiest.

In contrast, his landscape paintings show a seriousness.

Study for Night Heron1986

Pencil on paper

He wasn’t able to paint in a canoe in the swamp, so he did studies with sketches of ideas instead. Then in the studiio he would combine them into more formal compostitions.

Night Heron1986-87

Oil on canvas96 x 78 inches

In Bates’ bird series from this time period, we see a maturing of his techniques and subject matter. As you see in this example he is exploring the dramatic chromatic effects of changing light in the landscape.

Black Crowned Night Heron

PHOTO PAINTING