With a backpack full of paints and brushes, and an easel strapped to his motorbike, David Eagles heads out around Bali, chasing inspiration. His destination? Wherever his muse speaks to him.
He spots a moment—maybe the light hits an angle just right, or the scene clicks into the perfect composition—and he sets up shop on the spot. Fast and instinctive, he paints with the urgency of someone racing the sun before it sets or the heat of the day steals the moment away. He likens ‘plein-air’ painting to surfing, both need the right destination, a certain set of gear, colliding conditions, and the full focus of the artist.
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, David moved to Bali permanently in 1997.
plein-air. adjective:
denoting or in the manner of a 19th-century style of painting outdoors, or with a strong sense of the open air, that became a central feature of French impressionism.
You can see his latest works at DEUS from Saturday November 16 till Dec 8, 2024. Exhibition Opening Nov 16, 7pm.
