David Boyd is one of Australia’s most celebrated modernist artists. Working alongside his fellow artist brother, Boyd was following a strong figurative tradition within Melbourne in the mid 20th century. Boyd was part of the Antipodean movement, a group that was created by artists in the quest to forge meaning and representation during a time that abstract expressionism was gaining popularity.

'The Wanderer' encapsulates Boyd’s unique ability to combine visual storytelling with painterly print techniques. With its soft, tonal palette and layered surface detail, the work invites close contemplation. The print features a richly atmospheric landscape, populated with roaming figures and animals. It reflects Boyd’s whimsical narrative approach and layered textures, evoking his often revisited themes of movement, introspection, and the human condition. The lone figure becomes a metaphor for exile, reflection, or spiritual searching. Executed as a collagraph, the work reveals Boyd’s mastery of texture and tone—its layered, tactile surface evoking the physical and emotional weight of the journey.

A compelling acquisition for collectors drawn to works that blend visual poetry with conceptual depth.

David BOYD (1924 - 2011)
'The Wanderer'
Collagraph on paper
Image Size: 70 x 72 cm
Dimensions: 77 x 86 cm
Signed: Signed and inscribed below image

Comes with Letter of Provenance

Condition: Very Good: Describes a work of art's image as Excellent, but may show some small signs of surrounding wear to paper or frame. There are no tears to paper margin or disruption to the paint surface.

(c) David Boyd / Copyright Agency