David Avery

In the heart of San Francisco's Mission District, David Avery has been meticulously crafting black-and-white etchings for over three decades. Originally trained as a classical musician, Avery's accidental enrollment in a community college etching class ignited a passion that led him to become a self-taught master of the medium.

Avery's work is characterized by its intricate detail and dark humor, often drawing inspiration from Old Master techniques to comment on contemporary issues. His etchings serve as a bridge between past and present, blending historical references with modern satire. For instance, his piece "Mendacia Ridicula (The Wheel of Ixion)" reimagines a mythological punishment to critique political figures, incorporating symbols like Ku Klux Klan robes and a "Trump" sign to underscore themes of arrogance and folly.

Despite the prevailing notion that "black and white doesn't sell," Avery remains committed to the monochromatic palette, believing it best conveys the psychological depth he seeks to explore . His dedication has earned him recognition in esteemed collections, including the Library of Congress, the Fogg Museum at Harvard University, and the Achenbach Foundation for the Graphic Arts.

Through his etchings, Avery invites viewers to delve into a world where classical artistry meets modern critique, challenging perceptions and encouraging reflection on the complexities of contemporary society.

Major Public Collections Featuring David Avery's Work

• Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.

• Fogg Museum of Fine Arts, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA

• Achenbach Foundation for Graphic Arts, San Francisco, CA

• Stanford University Library, Special Collections, Stanford, CA

• New York Public Library, New York, NY

• Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C.

• San Francisco Public Library, Book Arts and Special Collections Center

• Turner Print Gallery, California State University, Chico, CA

• St. Mary's College, Moraga, CA

• Lakeview Museum, Peoria, IL

• Arkansas State University, Permanent Collection, AR

• Purdue University Galleries, West Lafayette, IN

• Bradbury Art Museum, Jonesboro, AR

• Kellogg University Art Gallery, Pomona, CA