|
|
David Batey, son of a boot maker,
was born in Newcastle, England, in 1946. Even as a child he showed keen promise
in the artistic field when, promoted by his school, he won a scholarship to
Saint Martin’s School of Art, in London. Sadly, this never materialised as his
father, although proud of his son’s achievements, could not find sufficient
finances to support him through his years of study. In contrast, his mother was
relieved; her ambition for her son went no further than that he should ply a
trade, - which led him to taking out an apprenticeship as an upholsterer.
Disliking the work, he gave up and joined his father in his boot making
business, a skill that would later pave the way for him to leave the industrial
north forever, when, in 1967, on learning that boot makers were needed in
Australia, he applied to migrate, and was accepted.
In Western Australia, the twenty-one year old found work at Weaver’s Footwear in
Maylands; then he married and finally settled in Gosnells where he raised a
family. Although he went on to open his own small, boot business, his love of
art was never far away, and he soon found that he was able to add to his income
by drawing and painting the abundance of colourful birds he saw around him. In
time, he joined the Western Australian Art Guild where he met other fellow
artists, and later became an early member, and enthusiastic supporter of a local
art society, through which he began exhibiting his work.
Since then, covering mainly pastoral scenes, David has successfully exhibited in
all major exhibitions across the state, working in oil, acrylic, water colour,
and pastel. At present, he is producing delightful studies of animals using an
exceptionally fine pastel technique, some of which can be viewed on this site.
For those seeking further information, or who wish to see more of the artist’s
work, are welcome to ring him on (08) 9398 4410 , or to call in at the studio,
29 Watson street, Gosnells. During weekday hours. Or email
info@davidbatey.com