Dave Culpepper current has a solo show at CoLab projects titled That’s not goin’ anywhere on view through September 28th. Visit Co-Lab Projects for details on gallery hours.

What are you working on now? I am making an object that will be included in a group show at the end of the month at Vault Stone Shop. The show is called Flash Collection and was curated by GD Wright and Meghan Shogan.

What draws you to do what you do? A lot of my inspiration comes from my 9-5. Working in museums and galleries the last decade has shaped the way I approach making and installing objects. I have always been a fan of the “behind the scenes” and most of my work is related to that in some fashion.

How long have you been an artist and/or curator and how has your practice changed over time? I have been making art in Austin for the last 10 yearsIn college I was making photorealistic drawings and paintings. My practice has shifted more toward sculpture, still with a heavy influence of faux and mimicry.

In your opinion, what does the Austin arts community need as the city continues to grow? Many galleries and studios have closed over the last few years, mostly because artists are renting a space and get priced out. It would be great to see the city of Austin step up and provide some assistance to keep these spaces alive. 

ABOUT DAVE CULPEPPER
Dave Culpepper was born in Alexandria, Virginia. In 2010 he received a BFA in Painting and Printmaking from Virginia Commonwealth University. Dave has been living in Austin for the last 9 years and is a founding member of Ink Tank Collective, Free Beer Podcast, and  Fancy Fancy Studios and Gallery. His most recent projects have been exhibited at Grayduck Gallery, MASS Gallery, and Pump Project. Dave received the Austin Critics Table Award for his solo exhibition “Wake Me When It’s Quittin’ Time” at CoLab projects in 2014-2015. 

Follow Dave to keep updated with his practice:
Instagram @oinktank