We shine a light on David Gluck, the dynamic winner of the 2021/22 SSNAP People’s Choice Award – Youth Vote, whose innovative artistry is already leaving a significant mark on the contemporary art scene.

We are thrilled to spotlight David Gluck, the talented recipient of the 2021/22 SSNAP People’s Choice Award – Youth Vote. David, a dynamic and innovative artist, has already made significant waves in the art community with his compelling and thoughtful work. His artistry not only captures the essence of contemporary issues but also explores the depths of human emotion through a unique and captivating visual language. We had the opportunity to ask David about his practice and winning the SSNAP Youth Prize, and we are excited to share his responses.

  1. Can you share how winning the SSNAP Youth Prize in 2023 has influenced your artistic career and any new opportunities that have opened up for you since then? – I think the most important takeaway from winning the Youth Prize is that younger audiences still embrace classical painting, at least to some degree.  I was surprised by this.  Very often, my work is associated with a much older demographic, as it echoes back to traditional/formal times before the rise of modernism.  It made me really happy to think there will be future generations that may appreciate what it is I tried to do after so many years, even though it’s not entirely relevant to today’s culture.
  2. Since receiving the SSNAP Youth Prize, have you noticed a change in how you approach your art practice or the themes you choose to explore? – I just keep on keeping on so to speak.  Sales, awards, recognition, etc seldom change what I paint.  Painting really is a self indulgent enterprise for me these days, and I absolutely love it.
  3. What projects or exhibitions are you currently involved in, and how might they have been impacted by the recognition and support from the SSNAP award? – Just recently signed with my first Canadian gallery in Vancouver, “WhiteRock Galleries.”  They have some wonderful people there.  Ill likely be focusing on figurative work for the next couple years.
  4. Looking back since winning the award, what advice would you give to young artists aspiring to gain similar recognition in the art community? – Paint what you love.  Inauthenticity shows.  Art is never a linear path, you have to be prepared to adapt and constantly change to survive, while being true to yourself and your work.  Make the best work you possibly can, and avoid gimmicks and trends.  Recognition will come naturally.

Artwork Titles:

Feature Image: “Still Water” Oil on panel, 2021, People’s Choice Award – Youth Vote


“Wander” Oil on panel, 2025
“Skyburst” Oil on panel, 2025

“Snowscape” Oil on panel, 2025