David Dupree was a fine fellow and a very fine painter. David’s last art show at Studio 53 Gallery started July 1, 2022, the First Friday opening was on July 5. Despite living with an incurable cancer, and thanks to help from family and friends David was able to attend that opening - and he had a great time there! Sadly, he passed away July 16, 2022.

David and his wonderful wife Gerda Andersen, of Boothbay’s world famous Andersen Design pottery family, shared a loving marriage for decades. They resided in North Waterford, Maine in a home chock full of David’s paintings.

David first started to paint seriously while attending Rhode Island College, where he majored in history and philosophy; after graduating he traveled and worked many jobs in many places. These varied experiences became the focus of his paintings, but mostly in retrospect. He painted mainly from memory of his earlier experiences. This working from memory became the focus of his technique and allowed him to let his imagination perhaps improve on reality. Whatever, it sure worked for him. He said painting from memory helped him better understand his own history and philosophy.

I first saw his work about 10-12 years ago when I visited Andersen Design Studio and Showroom in East Boothbay. The tiny four foot by four foot entryway to the showroom was jam packed with David’s canvases. I was mesmerized by this colorful and energized work. When I managed to tear myself away from it I saw Christine Andersen in the studio and asked her about it. She replied that they were the work of her brother-in-law. David Dupree was lucky enough to have four Andersen sisters-in-law as well as an Andersen sister for a wife. I told Christine I wanted to have him in my gallery and she helped me get in touch with him.

It has been an absolute pleasure having David in the gallery all these years and I surely miss him. Did I say he was a fine fellow and a fine painter?

Rest in peace, David. Your work will carry on for you as people continue to enjoy it.