The Geoffrey Davidson Gallery
Geoffrey Davidson 1921-2009 - Knitted Pictures
Geoffrey Davidson developed a highly original method of picture making. He created his images with knitted stitch, utilising wool much as a painter applies paint, selecting and composing his themes with the care and imagination of all artists.
His pictures explore colour, form, pattern and texture, in layers of detail that engage the viewer at many different levels. His themes are as versatile as his technique was unique. They are born out of a long life, lived richly, a keen sense of place and atmosphere and a knowledge of history, art and architecture.
Brought up in Kenya, Geoffrey studied ballet with Madame Rambert. In 1950 he joined Alicia Markova and Anton Dolin as a founder member of London's Festival Ballet, dancing with the company until 1960. Later he worked as ballet master and teacher in London, Ireland and Portugal.
In 1972 at the request of Dame Ninette de Valois, Geoffrey worked as guest teacher to the Ankara State Ballet and in the following year he joined the Istanbul State Conservatoire as Ballet Master. When he retired, he concentrated on creating his knitted pictures, the inspiration for which came from Ronald Wilson.