Fucking or fighting

by Guest Artist David Theron

July 31 - Aug 3 | Reception July 31, 5-8pm

David Theron’s work has always revolved around the concept of the Other, and his time living abroad has only deepened this exploration. His art navigates the inherent difficulties of clear expression in both life and art, offering unsettling glimpses of strangers in unfamiliar environments. These elements coalesce into works that emphasize the significance of uncertainty. Theron’s use of dense marks layered over crisp yet simultaneously dissolving features beautifully reflects the enigma of human relationships, highlighting the profound truth that it is impossible to truly know another person—or oneself.

In February 2020, Theron’s life took a dramatic turn when his wife was diagnosed with stage four cancer just two days before the birth of his daughter. This life-altering event prompted him to deeply contemplate the roles individuals play in each other's lives and the ways in which we influence and change one another, for better or for worse. His paintings from this period are a visceral response to the immense stress and transformation he experienced. He became obsessed with the moments shared with loved ones and was drawn to rare memories where he had witnessed others’ lives change in an instant—through fights, sex, arguments, and emotionally charged encounters.

Theron's paintings serve as a mediation on these pivotal moments of change. He draws intriguing parallels between the physical acts of sex and conflict, revealing their unexpected and often uncomfortable similarities: bodies colliding, heightened emotions, physical tensions, and power struggles. Rather than presenting these moments as spectacles, he offers glimpses into something deeply private. Even when these acts occur in public, they remain profoundly personal.

Theron’s goal is to make the viewer feel involved, part of a secret, complicit in the act.

Now based in Toronto, Canada, David Theron was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1981. While Theron has worked around the world as everything from a laboratory installer to a bar-tender, art and design have always been central to his life. Theron matriculated from the National School of the Arts in his hometown and, after a stint as a professional illustrator, went on to study at the Vega Brand School, qualifying with a BA in Creative Brand Communications in 2008.

While subsequently working as a designer for a Dubai-based agency, Theron developed an interest in animation. On his return to South Africa in 2010, he joined the Aces Up animation and post- production studio, working his way up to the position of Creative Director. In recognition of his talent, Theron was invited to join a select group\of international students at the prestigious Gobelins School of the Image in Paris, for a master class in animation in 2011. He is currently the Creative Director of Game Studio.

In 2014, he developed glaucoma, losing 80% of his vision in his right eye overnight. This spurred him to start pursing the career he wanted as a painter. A number of group exhibitions have followed, at galleries both in South Africa and abroad. Theron has also been represented at several of the art fairs in South Africa.

In 2018 he moved to Toronto, Canada, where he started working in the gaming industry.

In 2020, shortly after the birth of his first child, his wife was diagnosed with stage four cancer. These life events coupled with the COVID19 pandemic are the catalyst for his current body of work.

For inquiries, pricing, commissions, email  and follow his work @davidtheron