Born in WV, David Wilson is one of the leading NC African American artists of the generation that emerged in the wake of Romare Bearden and John Biggers. Wilson studied under Biggers while gaining his BFA at Hampton University (Hampton, VA) in the early 1990s. There, he absorbed the astute attention to culture and metaphor associated with Biggers' painting and printmaking.

Subsequently, Wilson returned to his earlier imprint from Bearden by refining his own visual and conceptual vocabulary that emerged through his focus on the points of intersection between technology and design with Bearden's unique synthesis of Cubist structure and southern folk traditions. The result are truly unique collages that weave myth and metaphor into universal themes of family, religion and culture that inspire introspection, education and communication.

Wilson’s work has been exhibited in Atlanta, Charlotte, DC, Miami and New York, as well as internationally in Germany and Spain. His work is included in notable private and celebrity collections.
In addition to his fine art accomplishments, Wilson creates architecturally scaled, public art that is cutting-edge and inspired from the people who live and work where the art will be placed. His most notable public work is the "Divergent Threads, Lucent Memories" glass mural facade for the Gantt Center for African American Arts + Culture (Charlotte).

MEET THE ARTIST | Wilson Fine Art 

Arts Education has been a fruitful part of my artistic career, from teaching adults and children at Gaston School of the Arts, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Gaston, to my 20 years as the art teacher at Bessemer City High School.  Successful Community Engagements and Public art collaborations are part of my 30-year dedication to sharing the magic of art with others and the communities in which they live.

Before my education career, I was a graphic and textile designer.  It was an exciting time to be a graphic designer in my younger artistic years, from growing with the Apple computer innovations to the basic T-shirt evolving into wearable art.  This design work experience enriched my educator career, bringing the desire to have my students’ artwork published, among other artist opportunities.   As a Gaston County native, my artistic vision and personal artmaking expression are influenced by the deep and diverse history, along with the natural landscape of my hometown. 

For me, art is the universal language, along with the belief that conversation leads to connection, and through connection, a broader community emerges.