Original Artworks by Alan Davie
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Explore the vivid imagination and boundless creativity of one of Britain’s most visionary artists in our collection of original artworks by Alan Davie. These unique pieces capture the raw energy, symbolism, and spontaneity that defined Davie’s celebrated career. Known for his bold use of colour, abstract forms, and spiritual motifs, each artwork offers a powerful glimpse into his inner world and artistic philosophy. Whether you're a seasoned collector or discovering Davie for the first time, these original works are a rare opportunity to connect with a true pioneer of post-war British art. Every piece is a statement, an invitation to experience art without boundaries.
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At Contemporary Six, we have the expertise and connections to source artworks by Alan Davie. If there’s a particular piece you’re interested in, let us know and we may be able to help. Our network includes trusted galleries, collectors and dealers, giving us access to a wide range of works. Get in touch and we’ll do our best to find the art you’re after.
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Biography
James Alan Davie (1920–2014) was a Scottish artist known for his bold, expressive style and adventurous spirit. Born in Grangemouth, Scotland, he studied at the Edinburgh College of Art from 1937 to 1941. After serving in the Royal Artillery during the Second World War, he returned to his creative passions, working not only as a painter but also as a poet, musician, and jeweller.
In 1948, Davie travelled across Europe with his wife, fellow artist Janet Gaul. A key moment came in Venice, where he met art collector Peggy Guggenheim, who bought his work. This helped him gain early recognition, particularly in the United States. His art was influenced by Abstract Expressionism and artists such as Jackson Pollock, Paul Klee and Joan Miró.
Davie’s work is filled with symbols, mystical imagery, and bold colours. He was deeply inspired by mythology, Zen Buddhism, and the unconscious mind. He painted intuitively, often laying his canvas on the floor to allow for freer, more physical movement. His aim was to access deeper, spiritual truths through spontaneous mark-making.
Although he gained success in America early on, it wasn’t until the late 1950s that Davie’s work received major recognition in the UK, with exhibitions at the Whitechapel Gallery and Wakefield Art Gallery. Over the decades, he continued to explore a wide range of media, including prints, tapestries and musical improvisation.
Alan Davie’s artworks are held in major collections around the world, including the Tate, the National Galleries of Scotland, and MoMA in New York. He remained active throughout his life, creating visionary, original work well into his 90s. Davie passed away in 2014, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of Britain’s most distinctive post-war artists.
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FAQs
Alan Davie was a pioneering Scottish artist, born in 1920, known for his expressive abstract paintings, rich in symbolism and spirituality. His work blends vivid colour, gestural brushstrokes, and mysterious imagery inspired by mythology, music, and Eastern philosophy. In addition to painting, Davie was also a talented musician, poet, and jeweller. He developed a spontaneous, intuitive approach to art-making that set him apart from his contemporaries. Active well into his 90s, Davie’s dynamic style made him one of the most influential figures in post-war British art. He passed away in 2014, leaving behind a unique and diverse body of work.
Alan Davie’s style is best described as expressive and abstract, often merging bold colours, layered textures, and symbolic motifs. He was influenced by ancient cultures, Zen Buddhism, and the subconscious mind. His work reflects a spontaneous process, sometimes painting directly onto the floor to achieve energetic and fluid forms. Rather than planning compositions, he allowed his intuition to guide him. This improvisational method, similar to freeform jazz, resulted in paintings that feel both ritualistic and playful. His use of personal symbols, text, and totemic shapes make his work instantly recognisable and deeply immersive.
Alan Davie was born in Grangemouth, a town in central Scotland, in 1920. He grew up in a creative household—his father was also a painter—which nurtured his artistic talents from a young age. He later studied at Edinburgh College of Art, further developing his skills and artistic philosophy. Though he travelled widely throughout his life, especially in Europe, Scotland remained an important influence on his work. The landscapes, history, and mysticism of his homeland subtly informed the spiritual and symbolic nature of his painting, even as his style evolved into one of international significance.
To source original artworks by Alan Davie, your best starting point is Contemporary Six gallery. They offer a carefully curated selection of his work, including rare originals and prints. The gallery provides personalised advice for collectors and buyers, whether you are new to his work or looking to add to an existing collection. With access to reputable sources and in-depth knowledge of Davie’s practice, Contemporary Six ensures authenticity and quality. You can visit the gallery in person or explore available works online. This trusted setting is ideal for discovering and acquiring genuine pieces.
Alan Davie’s art is highly collectible due to its originality, energy, and lasting influence. Each piece is a vivid expression of his unique vision, blending spirituality, music, and intuition. Collectors value the individuality of his symbols and the sense of creative freedom his work embodies. Because Davie worked across different media—paint, paper, print, and jewellery—his art appeals to a wide range of tastes. Limited availability of his original works also adds to their desirability. Collecting Davie means owning a piece of post-war British art history, with timeless appeal and strong investment potential.
Absolutely. Alan Davie is widely recognised as one of Britain’s most original post-war artists. His contribution to modern and abstract art continues to be studied, collected, and celebrated. His work bridges the gap between European surrealism, American abstract expressionism, and personal mysticism. Art lovers and collectors are drawn to his bold colours, symbolic language, and spontaneous style. His influence is evident in the freedom of contemporary painting today. With renewed interest in his legacy, Davie’s work remains highly relevant, and his commitment to intuitive, spiritual creativity resonates strongly with modern audiences.
Yes, Alan Davie held numerous exhibitions throughout his career, both in the UK and internationally. His first solo exhibition in London took place in 1950, and from there his reputation grew. Although he gained attention earlier in the USA, major UK exhibitions followed, particularly in the late 1950s and 1960s. He continued to exhibit regularly throughout his life, showcasing his paintings, prints, and mixed media works. These exhibitions played a key role in establishing his legacy and introducing new generations to his unique, imaginative approach to modern art.
