Born in 1980 in Budapest, Hungary, David Nemes is an abstract artist working with photographic processes. Originally trained in architecture, he later worked as a commercial photographer in the United Kingdom before turning toward an artistic practice.
Rather than using photography to document the visible world, Nemes approaches the medium as a way to construct images, and create pure abstraction. Working across different photographic processes - including camera-based experimentation, photograms, and direct interaction with the sensor - he treats light as the primary material of his work.
His practice explores how photographic technologies and light-sensitive materials can be used to generate abstract structures of colour, form, and rhythm. Instead of recording reality, Nemes builds images through controlled interactions between light, surfaces, and photographic systems.
While rooted in photographic processes, his work increasingly expands toward a broader material exploration. Positioned between photography and abstract art, Nemes’ practice questions the traditional role of photography as a descriptive medium and investigates its potential as a tool for creating autonomous visual forms.
Exhibitions:
2026, The Future is Experimental - 20 Artists Redefining Photography; 26th Pingyao International Photography Festival; China
2024, Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition, London
Publications:
20 Experimental Photographers You Need to Know! Analog Forever Magazine
Graphis Photography Annual 2023
Graphis Photography Annual 2022
Awards and Honours:
2021, 3rd Place, International Photography Award, Advertising Photography,
2023, Silver Graphis Awards, Architectural Photography
2022, Silver Graphis Awards, Food Photography
2022, Silver Graphis Awards, Beverage Photography
2022, Silver Graphis Awards, Advertising Photography