David Kaufman: Bridging Cultures Through Art
Connect with David Kaufman:
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: +639175183025
Instagram: @davidkaufmanstudio
Facebook: David Kaufman Stone Art
In the world of contemporary art, where boundaries blur and cultures intertwine, David Kaufman stands as a testament to the power of artistic expression. Born in 1973 in the Philippines, this Spanish-American artist has carved a unique space in the global art scene, blending his heritage with international influences to create works that challenge and inspire.
David Kaufman’s artistic journey began at a young age. Painting since childhood, he nurtured his craft through formal studies at the College of Saint Benilde De La Salle University in Manila before earning a postgraduate degree at the prestigious University of Oxford. However, it wasn’t until he immersed himself in the Spanish art scene, painting daily in Madrid, that he fully embraced his identity as a full-time artist.
While Kaufman is also the founder of a leading stone company in the Philippines, his passion for art remains unwavering. Splitting his time between Manila and Madrid, he works across multiple mediums, including abstract painting, photography, mixed media, and sculpture. His ability to balance a thriving business with a dynamic artistic career speaks to his dedication and relentless pursuit of creative expression.
Exploring the Soul of the Streets
At the core of Kaufman’s work lies a deep exploration of Manila’s street culture. His art captures the raw energy of urban life, offering a unique perspective that blends abstraction with storytelling. His paintings, often bold and expressive, are not just visual representations but narratives that convey the vibrancy, history, and human experiences within the cityscape.
Having lived and exhibited in different parts of the world, Kaufman brings a global perspective to his Filipino roots. His works reflect a hybrid of cultures, an interplay between his Manila upbringing and the artistic influences he has absorbed from Europe. This fusion results in a fresh, unconventional style that challenges traditional norms in Filipino art.
Exhibitions and Global Recognition
From 2023 to 2025, Kaufman has been actively showcasing his works across the globe. His solo exhibitions include Naked Streets at the Super Duper Gallery, Naked Distortion at the Space Encounter Gallery, and Tag 4120 in Tagaytay. He has also participated in numerous group exhibitions across the Philippines, Spain, and soon in Germany.
His upcoming exhibition at ArtMuc in Munich, Germany, marks a significant milestone in his career. While Filipino art is often associated with realism and polished aesthetics, Kaufman’s approach leans towards expressionist abstraction. He hopes to introduce German audiences to a different facet of Filipino artistry—one that embraces complexity, raw emotion, and structured chaos.
As with any international artist, Kaufman has faced logistical and creative challenges. Preparing for exhibitions while managing his business requires meticulous planning and significant sacrifices. For his Munich exhibition, for instance, he had to make an unscheduled trip, balancing his commitments in Manila with his passion for art. Yet, it is this dedication that propels him forward, ensuring his work reaches new audiences across the world.
For young Filipino artists aspiring to break into the international scene, Kaufman offers practical advice: build a diverse portfolio, exhibit in various spaces—from major galleries to underground art fairs—and actively seek opportunities beyond the Philippines. Developing an artist CV, networking with galleries abroad, and embracing a distinct artistic voice are crucial steps toward gaining global recognition.
Looking ahead, Kaufman has several upcoming exhibitions lined up, including shows in Manila, Pasig, and Makati. As the appreciation for abstract and expressionist art grows in the Philippines, he remains optimistic about expanding his reach and influencing the next generation of Filipino contemporary artists.
For those interested in experiencing his art firsthand, his works will be featured at ArtMuc from May 1 to 4, 2025. His representation, Galeria Gaudi in Madrid, also offers collectors the opportunity to acquire his pieces.
David Kaufman’s journey is more than just a personal triumph—it is a bridge between cultures, a dialogue between tradition and modernity, and a celebration of artistic evolution. Through his work, he continues to challenge perceptions, redefine Filipino artistry, and leave an indelible mark on the global art scene.
