David Williams-Ellis British, b. 1959

The UK's leading figurative sculptor

David Williams-Ellis is an internationally recognised sculptor whose work focuses on the human figure. He developed his style in the school of Nerina Simi in Florence and was heavily influenced by early Renaissance works, as well as the architecture and visual excitement of Italy. In 1978 he received the Elizabeth T. Greenshield Foundation Award and he was able to work and study with the marble craftsmen of Carrara in Pietrasanta.

In 1981 David returned to London to attend the Sir John Cass School of Art and took-up sculpture. David is inspired by the romanticism of Rodin and Bourdelle and his sculpture is noted for its classical balance and poise and above all for a sense of movement and vitality captured within the form.

David has a distinguished artistic pedigree. His great uncle was Clough Williams-Ellis, the architect who created the Italianate village of Portmeiron in North Wales. His parents were talented amateur artists and his sister, Bronwyn, is a globally renowned ceramicist.

An initial group show cemented David’s reputation and soon he was travelling round Britain sculpting commissioned portraits. Exhibitions at the Portland Gallery, the Bruton Gallery, Agnews, Sladmore and Cadogan Contemporary followed. Today his work is in private collections all over the world and can be seen dominating public spaces and flagship buildings from Scone Palace in Perthshire to the IFC Building in Shanghai. He continues to sculpt both public and private commissions globally.