David Burch is one of the most fascinating figures in contemporary Canadian art. His creative journey is as captivating as his paintings, taking him from a career in sociology to the world of incredible abstract art. In this article on edmontonski.com, we explore his path, his work, and the secrets to his success.
How Burch Came to Art
David Burch was born in a small Alberta town and grew up in Edmonton. In 1967, he earned his second degree in sociology from the University of Calgary before packing his bags and heading to Toronto, where he would spend the next 28 years of his life. At the time, he had no idea that this move would inspire him to start collecting art and, eventually, to begin his own artistic practice. It was in Toronto that he was first introduced to contemporary art and began building a small collection of his own.
Another turning point in Burch’s life came in 1995 when he moved to New York City. There, he accepted a position as a professor of cancer epidemiology at Columbia University. Soon after, Burch became part of a team tasked with assessing the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster. This gave him the opportunity to travel to Ukraine and introduced him to the country’s art scene, which left a deep impression on him. He discovered many culturally significant works at affordable prices, and with each trip, his collection grew. It was then that he began to seriously consider painting himself.
Studying with Landfield
In 1995, Burch enrolled in painting classes at the Art Students League of New York, studying under the renowned artist Ronnie Landfield. This mentorship fanned the flames of his passion, and Burch began to pursue his art seriously. For ten years, he absorbed Landfield’s expertise, attending classes three to four days a week.
Landfield gave his students complete freedom to paint whatever they wished. While some focused on painting models, Burch chose to experiment. Landfield quickly recognized Burch’s keen interest in colour and helped him discover the signature palette he often uses in his work today. He essentially helped Burch find his own style.
In 2007, David Burch retired and returned to Edmonton, where he began to paint prolifically. He still travels frequently to New York to continue working with Landfield.
About Burch’s Style
David Burch creates abstract paintings that explore form, colour, and dynamics. He often uses bright, pure colours like blue, red, and yellow. Some of his paintings are reminiscent of landscapes, and he helps guide the viewer’s interpretation with titles such as “After the Storm” or “The Door.” However, his work is most often metaphorical in nature.
Burch works with oil and acrylic on canvas. He sometimes turns to large formats to convey the scale of landscapes or spatial abstractions.
On Addiction and Mental Health
Unfortunately, the artist struggles with bipolar disorder and depression. He admits that his creative practice is a crucial tool in managing his chronic depression. In interviews, Burch has shared that the very act of applying paint to canvas is an important part of his self-regulation.
Burch also belongs to a generation of gay men who were forced to remain silent about their sexual orientation. He came out as a gay man in 1967. While he was fortunate to have his family’s acceptance, he often faced judgment from society.
In addition, the artist struggled with alcoholism but successfully overcame his addiction. He quit drinking in 1991, a decision he believes saved his life.
This story proves that it’s never too late to start a new chapter or to discover the world of art. For Burch, creativity is a way to combat his inner darkness, transforming it into light on his canvases.