Thesis 2025 / David Quady | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Thesis 2025 / David Quady

Person in robe reclines in chair reading a yellow book, smiling, with plush cow slippers in the foreground

These paintings represent the culmination of the work I have been developing throughout the program, with a particular focus on my efforts since the summer. During that time, I embarked on a renewed investigation and commitment to working from direct observation, deepening my engagement with realism. This investigation guided my approach to the paintings that became my thesis work, selecting subject matter and settings that stem directly from my personal experiences—depicting the people, objects, and spaces that I encounter in my daily life. By grounding my work in direct observation, I have been able to explore ways of constructing an imaginative experience for the viewer while allowing each painting to evolve organically.

One of the key areas of investigation in this body of work has been an increase in scale. The larger format has provided more room for experimentation with mark-making and surface development, enriching the visual and technical narrative of each piece. This shift has allowed me to engage more deeply with the physicality of the painting process, creating textured, layered surfaces that contribute to the overall presence of the work.

By anchoring my work in reality, I have paradoxically found greater freedom in making imaginative leaps. The presence of a real-world reference point offers a contrast against which these leaps can be measured and explored, rather than constructing entirely imagined scenes without any connection to observed reality. This balance between observation and invention plays a crucial role in shaping the logic and evolution of each piece.

Rather than aiming to convey a specific, didactic message, my work is concerned with inviting the viewer into a contemplative experience. Each painting is an open-ended space where the viewer can engage in free association, constructing their own narratives and interpretations. Rather than executing a predetermined concept, I allow each piece to develop its own internal logic and priorities throughout the process, letting the act of painting itself guide the outcome.

Website: www.davidpquady.com
Instagram: davidpquady_art

Categories
MFA Thesis 2025
Published on
May 02, 2025

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