David Tindle RA: A Life in Paint

Early Life and Education

Born on 29 April 1932 in Huddersfield, Yorkshire, David Tindle demonstrated an early aptitude for art. He began his formal education at the Coventry School of Art from 1945 to 1947, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in painting.

Charles Tempera on Canvas by David Tindle

Artistic Development and Influences

In 1951, Tindle moved to London, immersing himself in the city's vibrant art scene. There, he formed significant friendships with prominent artists such as Francis Bacon, Lucian Freud, John Craxton, and John Minton. These relationships not only influenced his artistic development but also positioned him within a circle of serious and committed painters.

Teaching Career

Tindle's commitment to art extended beyond his own practice into education. From 1959 to 1974, he taught at Hornsey College of Art and Byam Shaw School of Art. He then served as a visiting tutor at the Royal College of Art from 1972 to 1983. Further cementing his influence, Tindle was appointed Ruskin Master of Drawing at Oxford University between 1985 and 1987.

Exhibitions and Collections

Throughout his illustrious career, Tindle has been the subject of numerous solo exhibitions. His first was held in 1954 at the Piccadilly Gallery in London, followed by shows at the 57 Gallery in Edinburgh (1957) and the Metropole Gallery in Folkestone (1963 and 1965). International exhibitions include those at Galleria Carbonesi in Bologna and Galleria Vinciana in Milan (both 1968), as well as multiple shows at Gallerie XX in Hamburg (1974, 1977, 1980, and 1985). Retrospectives of his work have been showcased at the Coventry City Art Gallery (1957) and Northampton Art Gallery (1972).

Tindle's works are held in high esteem and form part of several prestigious public collections. Notably, his paintings are included in the Royal Academy of Arts and the Tate Gallery in London. Additionally, his art is featured in the National Portrait Gallery, which commissioned him in 1986 to paint a portrait of the actor Sir Dirk Bogarde.

Charles Tempera on Canvas by David Tindle

Legacy and Recognition

In recognition of his contributions to art, Tindle was elected a Royal Academician in 1979, having previously been made an Associate in 1973. He continues to be celebrated for his detailed and evocative works, which often explore themes of memory and presence.