York University
Art Collection Online

David Urban’s work is defined by bold collisions of line and shape, clashing tones and kinetic brushstrokes. Urban builds his dynamic paintings, layer upon layer, incorporating the traditions of still life and landscape, abstraction and realism. Rhythmic geometries conjure up networks of boards, beams, and girders. His work explores the physical presence of sound, with a strong sense of connectivity and rhythmical structure. Urban produces forms that engage the viewer, pursuing an endless investigation into how and why we perceive images.  

In the Ling — which as a title summons poetic and linguistic associations — dates from 1997, when Urban was based in Toronto and exhibiting locally and internationally. With its combination of gesture and structure, the source untitled ink on paper drawing relates closely to paintings Urban was making at the time as well as and to the existing prints by Urban in our collection. Given Urban’s interest in poetry and writing, informed by his time studying at York, these works round out his representation within our holdings.