

David Gilliver
Born: 1979
Hometown: Glasgow
Based in: Gartcosh
Born: 1979
Hometown: Glasgow
Based in: Gartcosh
I graduated from the Fine Art Photography (BA Hons) course at the Glasgow School of Art in 2001 and have been working hard to establish myself as a respected professional photographer and artist ever since. I specialise in long-exposure photography (the art of ‘Light Painting’) as well as macro photography (my ‘Little People’ series).
My work has received some very welcome attention over the years which has led to me becoming involved in some very exciting projects all over the world. Highlights of the past couple of years include having some of my photography stocked by John Lewis, providing bespoke artwork for the wonderful AIDA cruise ship restaurants, and working on exciting commissions for ThreeUK, the Canary Islands Tourism Group, Sony, Adobe, and the Noor Riyadh Festival of Light.
As well as regularly exhibiting my work I also run regular Creative Photography Workshops, and in late 2018 I started travelling the country teaching my Workshops in schools across Scotland. I now regularly present to Colleges, Universities and Camera Clubs online via Zoom. I also regularly work with businesses in the creative sector, creating bespoke images for advertising and branding campaigns.
I create all of my miniature artworks in my home studio. I have plenty of storage and space here which is ideal for a style of photography that demands a delicate and organised approach. For my Light Painting photography, I create my artwork outdoors (within the landscape) at night time well after the sun has set.
Describe your creative process.
The creative processes behind my light painting work and my Macro photography rely on accessing my vivid imagination. I use my photography as a form of escapism and as a catharsis, which is perhaps why there is such a strong sense of surrealism and humor contained within most of my work.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Imaginative, Playful, Innovative
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
David Levinthal, The Chapman Brothers, Jeff Koons
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
My imagination
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
You have two ears and one mouth - use them proportionately
Education
The Glasgow School of Art
Scotland, 1997
Awards
Shortlisted - Food Photographer of the Year Award
2022
Shortlisted - The British Photography Awards
2022
BA (Hons) Fine Art Photography Degree
2001
Exhibitions
The Aberdeen Art Fair
Scotland, 2022
The Glasgow Contemporary Art Fair
Scotland, 2022
It's a Small World - @ Scotia Gallery
Scotland, 2020