David Wadsworth is an emerging local artist who grew up in Pittsburgh’s South Hills.
An educator himself, Wadsworth’s artistic and professional life was impacted by a powerful lesson; that the experiences that bring you joy can be a clue to identifying your unique, God-given strengths and purpose.
Having discovered his passion for painting in 2007 Wadsworth paints almost daily, finding new challenges and rewards with each work. His paintings feature cityscapes and landscapes, many of which are scenes from his surrounding community of Pittsburgh.
Using oil paints and an impressionistic style Wadsworth emphasizes qualities of the subject through bold contrasts and simplification. Many works lean toward the semi-abstract and feature the relationship between architectural and natural elements.
Wadsworth has participated in local art workshops and enjoys the challenge of commissions. His work has been part of local exhibitions and can be seen in area businesses.
In addition to being inspired by his city and other artists, Wadsworth’s art is greatly influenced by his full-time job. He works at a local ministry assisting those seeking recovery from addiction and homelessness. It’s an incredible blessing to be part of these amazing individuals’ lives as they strive to rediscover their own joys and live out their God-given purpose.
Artist Statement
When I am struck by a particular scene or effect of light, I’ll stop whatever I’m doing and get a picture. These photos and a few notes serve as a starting point. Thanks to Pittsburgh’s diversity of people, architecture and landscapes I am guaranteed an endless source of inspiration. When it comes to mixing and applying the colors I take full advantage of the flexibility of oil paints and I enjoy using painting knives nearly as often as brushes in the application to the canvas. Thankfully oils allow for a lot of experimentation. My goal is to bring attention to the qualities of light, color and mood that got my attention in the first place. Borrowing a phrase from an admired artist, I would describe my approach as “following the light” around my home city of Pittsburgh. In addition to the huge role of natural light in my paintings, the phrase “following the light” also refers to the distinctly spiritual and emotional aspects of the places and the people around us. Art provides a great avenue for me to consider the intangible through what is seen
