David Bates, an artist of remarkable technical facility and considerable art historical awareness, mixes classical art references with influences from Southern folk art in paintings, sculpture and reliefs that range from landscapes to portraits to still life. Originally fascinated with the light, water and wildlife of the lakes of Arkansas and particularly the Texas Gulf Coast David Bates compositions are done in a direct, concise manner that is subtly complex. The artist captures both the humor and pathos of his subject matter. David Bates has achieved a national reputation for the visual sophistication and emotional strength of his art.