Meet David Ives | Artist and Woodworker

We had the good fortune of connecting with David Ives and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
This might not sound profound, but honestly I would say just being present in their lives. My wife and I have two wonderful boys, Evan and Asher, aged 11 and 13. When we moved to Vancouver from the UK in 2014, our boys were just 3 and 5 so still needed us around a lot. My wife and I agreed that she would go back to work full time while I focused on my studies and parenting the boys. This was a role reversal for us. It was certainly a juggle and there were times I wished I was back in a standard job, but overall being present for them through these early years was crucial in shaping who they are today and I’m so grateful to have had that opportunity. After all, not many fathers get to do all the school runs and spend summer weekdays playing in the park with their kids?!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from some artists would be my use of locally sourced reclaimed materials. A significant goal of each piece I make is to showcase the beauty of these naturally weathered, imperfect and often unwanted materials, by combining them with contrasting colors and textures, elevating them into art that has new found beauty, purpose and value.

I am proud of my first ever art exhibition. It was a fundraiser event in support of a local charity and one of my pieces caused quite a scene during the live auction, starting a bidding war and eventually selling for 3 times what I was expecting!

Let me clarify, I would not consider myself to be a professional or to have ‘made it’ as an artist, but if I had to boil down how I got to where I am today, 3 things spring to mind; 1. Pursuing enjoyment and purpose, 2. Intentional networking and 3. Sheer stubborn perseverance! Let me elaborate…

It’s tempting to resort to believing a job is just a means of paying the bills; something to endure until the weekend when you can do what you really love. I like to push back against this mindset by asking myself, “What job do I want to do? What will I enjoy? What will give me a sense of purpose?”. When I couldn’t find a job that fitted my answers, I decided to create my own.

Looking back, my most exciting projects have come about, not because people have found me but because I have reached out to them, sometimes with extreme persistence! Anyone from friends, school parents in the park, emails to high profile industry professionals, collaborations with other artists.. in fact I was recommended for this very interview by my friend Tierney, who I only know because I reached out to her after seeing her work, which led to working on a number of pieces together. You never know where a simple “Hello” will end up going!!

Lastly, I believe everyone who works for themselves or is starting something needs a large dose of stubborn perseverance. This path is more like a marathon than a sprint. There have been some great highs, but an equal amount of lows and times when the desire to quit and retreat to a standard job has felt overwhelming. Thankfully I’m learning to keep on track through these times and just keep pushing forward, believing that something good is on the horizon.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Wow, living in Vancouver this question is a tough one to answer! It’s such an amazing city with something for everyone. Granville Island is a unique place to explore with tons of artists spaces and places to eat, Go Fish and The Lobster Man are personal favorites. Also because it’s right by the waterfront you’re likely to see seals swimming around by moored boats which is very cool. From there I would take a stroll or ride along the waterfront to Kits beach. Whether it’s a pro volleyball or basketball tournament, there’s always something happening to see. Another not to miss sight is the view of the local mountains but also the view back of the city from the top. Whether you drive, take the gondola or hike the ‘Grouse Grind’ the views are well worth it… just breath taking!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to dedicate my shout out to author and friend Jordan Raynor. His books ‘Called to Create’ and ‘Master of One’ encouraged me to believe that I was born to be creative, inspiring me to pursue excellence in everything I do.

Also to Dr R. Paul Stevens for his use of story and humor in his lectures and helping equip me for the meaningful work I am doing today.

Last but not least, my wife Sian for her ongoing love and support.. I often say to her ” If you want me to get a ‘proper’ job, I will” but she still hasn’t asked!

Website: https://www.davidives.ca/

Instagram: @davidivesart