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Local Art Stories
Artist interviews – New designers – New at Amanartis Studios.
For many of us these, by the time we’ve acquired a few years, we’d have probably had a few lives In different roles – goodness I’ve done all sorts in the hustle to make the creative dream a reality. I know I’m not alone here.
The studio had not been open for long, when I was visited by an uniformed officer- this is always a little bit of a wary situation, so I was really surprised when we got into a conversation about art, inspiration and past creative loves…
David Busbridge - THE FORCE BY DAY, ARTIST WITH A CURIOUS MIND BY NIGHT.
Vicarage Road, graphic now available at Watford Stadium Shop and online shop.
“It started about a couple of years ago just after lockdown. Your studio was on the way to my beat at the Hospital, and I remember being really curious to see what was inside. I walked in and just took in the creative atmosphere (and the smell of fresh bread).
It was an absolute tonic after many hours on foot in all weathers. Speaking to yourself and John made me realise I actually had a unique chance to start a new creative project on my work rest days (I’m quite frenetic so rarely actually ‘rest’ – my mind is too busy!) I left thinking about my art and previous work, thinking hmm, what if? What can I create?
David Busbridge can be seen around Watford with eyes and ears to the ground, keeping a close eye on the goings on in town as a PCSO (Police Community Support Officer).
Previously a graphic designer, his feelings towards the industry were not what they once were and as much as the love was still there, the passion wasn’t quite the same. But like anything, if you’re passionate about something it never really leaves you.
“I was sitting on the beach and thought, why not, I’ll send them the image and see what happens…”
Previously a graphic designer, his feelings towards the industry were not what they once were but much of the love was still there, the passion just wasn’t quite the same. But like anything, if you’re passionate about something it never really leaves you.
His role as a PCSO gives him a fascinating insight into life and allows him to use his problem solving skills in a very different way.
As David’s job gives him rotating rest days during the week (due to weekend work) It allows for some unique time to get on with little personal projects whilst others are at work. One of the challenges David set himself was to try and illustrate the Vicarage Road Stadium! He spent a long time working nearby on his beat so picked up lots of nuances about how the stadium had been constructed. After many months with a day here, a day there the digital illustration was finally complete. David then wondered if the club would like to see the image, maybe they could put it their shop?
“I was sitting on the beach and thought, why not – I’ll send them the image and see what happens…”
Fast forward to Aug 2022 when I receive a message from David informing me that he’s made contact with the buyer at the stadium and that they’re going to purchase 50 copies of his artwork!
Well, if you’ve ever tried to create a product that Is unique, commercially viable and of excellent quality, you’ll know how hard it is to do. This is a huge achievement and I’m so pleased for David – a huge congratulations.
David can be contacted for enquiries here.
A huge congratulations!
Above, David with the large version of the print.