David Oxtoby

From Blues 'n' Roots, a collection of 160 drawings in ballpoint pen.

‘These drawings represent Oxtoby’s personal tribute to the black men and women whose contributions to 20^th century popular music should never be understated or forgotten.  While they may have begun life as purely technical exercises, each is redolent with the respect and affection David Oxtoby has for the subject.’  

A personal note on these drawings, written by the artist: "A series of ball point pen studies – simple straightforward representations of people I admire for various reasons. Ballpoint pen work can be an excellent discipline.  Each drawing included was completed without initial pencil guidelines and no alterations.  If unacceptable mistakes were made the work was discarded and another done to replace it. However – mostly these pictures were conceived as tributes to those who have given so much – the roots – Megastars – Superstars – cult heroes – and others whose contribution to music is overlooked, or, all too often forgotten. Many have been omitted, let us not forget them."

Exhibitions

David Oxtoby's Blues 'n' Roots: Drawings & Mixed Media Works on Paper, Theatre Museum, London, 1989-1990 (illus. cat. cover)