#138 – David Remfry

Painter David Remfry RA on coordinating this year’s Summer Exhibition

Acclaimed British painter and Academician David Remfry confesses he thought he’d never be asked to coordinate the Royal Academy’s world-famous Summer Exhibition. When the call came, the 80-year-old artist says he was over the moon and said yes immediately.  

Helen catches up with David at his London studio surrounded by his stunning work to find out what’s involved; hear about his colourful life in London and New York, and his daily passion for Afrobeats dancing.

David recalls leaving Hull in the ’60s with his paintings packed in the back of a £50 van to seek his fortune in London; reminisces about living for two decades at the infamous Hotel Chelsea in Manhattan and talks about how his love of people inspires much of his work.

Main photograph courtesy of the Royal Academy of Arts