David Buffrey
As a metal sculptor, David Buffrey finds boundless inspiration in the fusion of humanity and metal which lies at the heart of his art. His work centres around creating original abstract sculptures that lovingly depict segments of the human form through the medium of metal.
The human spirit, with all its strength and creativity, serves as a constant muse for David. He is deeply moved by our resilience in the face of adversity and the inherent beauty that lies within each of us. To capture these facets of humanity he pours his heart and soul into his artwork, aiming to transpose the essence of human nature, kindness, compassion, and curiosity into every piece he creates.
In his artistic journey, David embraces the Greek concept of “Meraki”, which encapsulates the soul, love, and creativity invested in one’s work. Patience and passion are the driving forces behind his craft, as he meticulously MIG welds together thousands of high grade stainless steel nuts to form the foundation of each sculpture. With a medley of grinding techniques and tools, he then finesses the metal, shaping and sculpting it into captivating forms that speak to the human experience.
A key element of his process involves finishing the sculptures with a clear lacquer smooth gloss powder coating, applied through an electrostatic process and oven-cured for exceptional durability. This choice of coating ensures that his artworks can withstand the test of time and endure various challenges without losing their lustre.
As much as David invests his own meaning into each piece, he takes immense pleasure in witnessing the diverse reactions his art evokes in others. Art is a subjective realm where every individual finds their unique connection and interpretations. While he offers an artist statement, he refrains from imposing his personal views, allowing viewers to embark on their own journey of discovery and meaning.
By integrating lamps into some of his artwork, he transcends conventional boundaries, utilizing light and shadow to unlock new dimensions within his creations. These ethereal illuminations not only brighten the sculptures but can also act as a powerful conduit for the pieces' messages.
Carefully positioning his work holds the potential to transform the artwork’s impact dramatically. By adjusting the angle or distance from walls and ceiling, the interplay of light and shadow orchestrates an interactive symphony, granting spectators the power to actively participate in the artistic experience.
In handling his sculptures, we, as the gallery, encourage care due to their reasonable weight, especially when moving larger works. David wishes for his creations to be cherished and admired, and it brings him immense joy to witness others connect with his art in ways he may not have anticipated.
Above all, his art is a profound expression of his love for both the human spirit and the power of metal as a creative medium. Each sculpture is a testament to the enduring beauty and complexity of humanity, and it is our sincerest hope that his work resonates deeply with those who encounter it.