Dave Coburn; art that incorporates energy colour, intrigue and happiness 

Dave’s Bio  

Dave Coburn is a South African artist based in Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa. He has been involved in the graphic design industry for 25 years along with being an artist and illustrator. His career in the graphic design industry started in the magazine industry, as a layout artist followed by becoming the Art Director for Scope Magazine, the well-known South African men’s magazine He has exhibited his work over the years in South African galleries and been involved in illustration and design for various publications over the years. 

Under the guidance of his wife Coral Spencer, a well-known South African artist, he began painting with oil paint, which is now his preferred medium, he specializes in underwater scenes. Two years ago, it was suggested by his friend Izak Roux, a Dive Technician in the offshore industry, and his wife that he paint a vintage diver. He painted a vintage diver scene and continued with the theme, with a few more to follow. This work was quickly recognised by local and international vintage diver enthusiasts and collectors, as well as the present commercial dive industry. Dave now has an international following for his diver-inspired oil paintings, recently securing third place in an international competition for underwater art. Over the last few years, he has produced numerous commissioned pieces for private clients and businesses in the marine industry. Between commissions, he paints underwater scenes and sea life.  

“As predominantly land based souls we admire the beauty of the ocean from the shoreline. Underneath is a world unknown to most. Due to the threat to our oceans and coastline I embrace the beauty of beneath and attempt to retain the awareness of the unseen”. Dave’s passion for art is directly linked to providing paintings that are bold, colourful and portray the energy of his subjects. He is experimentational and has embarked on a new journey and fresh approach to capturing what is special to all of us. He also places emphasis in his quest to capture the energy of our sea life.  

Dave spends most of his spare time exploring the coastline and capturing content for his work with his wife Coral Spencer, who is a locally and internationally recognised artist who paints the sea and coastline. His ultimate aim is to create art that incorporates the basic aspects we should experience daily - energy, colour, intrigue and happiness.