Jonathan Davis is a visual artist who maintains a structured and analytical practice, informed by a professional background in architecture, bridging the gap between 3D installations and the medium of painting. His work consistently raises questions about the narrative capacity of the human mind and the innate desire to find meaning within the context of an inherently absurd world.

His latest practice, titled ‘Dilemma’, is an exploration of five oil paintings on stained gesso on linen. Following previous residencies in Berlin where he observed narrative distortion by nationalist-populists, Davis now turns his focus toward the friction between rationality and the "humouristic absurdism" offered by philosophical reasoning. By placing figures within liminal, abandoned, or urban spaces, he activates a narrative potential that forces the viewer to confront the conflict between the search for meaning and the world’s apparent lack of it. He describes his role as an artist as one who offers ironic responses to these dilemmas, denying any simple resolution to the human condition.

Rooted in a meticulous technical process, Davis utilizes water-soluble oil colors layered over acrylic stained gesso to achieve a signature flat, matte finish on linen. His work has been widely exhibited across Europe, including solo and collaborative shows such as ‘For it is Written’ (LiTE-HAUS Galerie, Berlin), ‘We All Have a Story’ (Co-Galleries, Berlin), ‘Panta Rhei’ (Highgate Contemporary, London), and ‘Contemplation Fields’ (Judd Street Gallery, London). His practice remains a deep inquiry into the visual languages and "stories" that shape our understanding of the world.

Education & Training

2014–2015

Privatstudio | Tricia Gillman

2013

University of the Arts London | Short Courses einschließlich „Towards Abstraction“

2002

LSE London | MSc Regional and Urban Planning

1979–1985

Sheffield University | BA Architectural Studies, Diploma in Architecture

Exhibition & Projects (Selection)

2019

We all Have a Story, Installation and 3D Artworks, Co-Galleries, Berlin, Germany

2018

For it is Written, 3D installation on the theme of populism, LiTE-HAUS Gallery, Berlin, Germany

2016

Panta Rhei, Abstract surfaces on panels, Highgate Contemporary London, London, UK

2014

Contemplation Fields, Series of abstract watercolors on paper, Judd Street Gallery, London, UK