David

Determination and grit are two traits David Parkinson has in spades.

You wouldn’t know it by looking at his work, but he didn’t even start practicing art until he was 40.

David left school early and became a jeweller and picture framer by trade. Having always had an interest in art, and wanting to further his eduation, David was attracted to a Screen Print Design course offered at RMIT.

Despite some hurdles – in order to enroll, he was required to complete a bridging course to qualify for the course and to learn to read and write better – he was resolved to follow his passion and finish the course.

David further developed his unique style after the course, with his key influences being graffiti, street art, tattooing and comics. He first exhibited his work in a Melbourne gallery in 2009.

Shortly after the exhibition, David was hit by a delivery truck while crossing the road. He was left with broken bones and an acquired brain injury.

As a result of the accident, David today lives in constant pain.

David currently receives a disability support pension.