Archer
Immerse yourself in dazzling, intergalactic experiences through the entrancing art of Dave and Forrester Archer. Their paintings both honor and utilize science, with real inspirations and electric techniques. His art is inspired by astronomy, namely wondrous photos from the Hubble telescope of outer space.
Dave Archer uses a process he calls “art storms,” electrocuting acrylic and resin paint with a Tesla coil to produce lightning shocks of color. He then paints over the art storms to create miniature fantasy universes that are utterly awe-inspiring. His paintings have been featured in movies and shows like Star Trek, and now Marcus Ashley Gallery offers the opportunity to purchase them for your own collection.

About Archer
Dave Archer was born in San Luis Obispo, California, in 1941. After graduating from high school, he received a scholarship to study art at the California Watercolor School. Archer began painting under the name Dave Archer in San Francisco during the Beat Generation when nonconformist artists and writers were all the rage. To fuel his passion, Archer also worked as a doorman at a coffeehouse between odd jobs.
In 1970, Archer was introduced to Ron Russell and the world of reverse glass painting. Together, they created the ‘reclusive’ painter Russell Archer—a combination of their middle names that allowed them to create art together. Their work was met with great success at festivals and exhibitions. In 1991, the duo came together again to showcase their evocative Russell Archer exhibit. The reunion was met with great enthusiasm and support by fans.
What kickstarted such a profound series of events between Ron Russell and Dave Archer was a meeting with Lee Bryd. He had been experimenting with electricity and built a Tesla coil of his own. This ‘sparked’ the artists’ imagination. They invited Bryd to perform experiments with their glass paintings. After several trials and failed attempts, the trio developed an art process that Archer relies on to this day.
Later, Archer required larger and finer Tesla coils to create his works. It was the late Mr. Bill Wysock (a Tesla coil engineer) who helped build and design Archer’s painting machines. Wysock is known for his notable work in creating special lighting effects for many Hollywood movies.
Archer’s method of painting involves using a handheld wand that generates a million volts of electrically charged arcs onto conductive water paints and glass. Much like a magician who’s about to perform a great magic trick, Archer’s process reveals what he calls ‘art storms’. Unreal, abstract cloudy forms appear on the glass that he develops by hand into comets, planets, and other celestial objects. Archer describes his work as ‘21st century, high-tech folk art’.
Now aged 81 Dave has retired and the artist has past on his legacy to his son Forrester, to continue his work.
Photo & Video Gallery
Questions Answered
Yes Dave Archers works have been included in various films. In Star Trek: The Next Generation (the TV show), plus two Star Trek movies, one being Generations.
His works can also be seen in Lucas Films’ Howard the Duck and many documentaries such as Eye to Eye with Connie Chung and the German doc, Lightning of the Gods
Purchase a Dave Archer Original at Marcus Ashley Gallery
Dave Archer art is truly incomparable. He has an incredible ability to create depth and mystery with a medium as volatile as electricity, and it’s no wonder he’s achieved fame and recognition throughout his decades-long career. Dave Archer pours his passion for both art and science into his work, and his gift is evident in every unique piece.
- 2Wild
- Aleksandra Rozenvain
- Alexander Volkov
- Barak Rozenvain
- Boris Kramer
- Charles Pabst
- Archer
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- Fabio Napoleoni
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- Ira Reines
- Jack Storms
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- Loet Vanderveen
- Lyman Whitaker
- Mackenzie Thorpe
- Malcolm Tibbetts
- Mario Jung
- Markus Pierson
- Maya Eventov
- Merchandise
- Michael Flohr
- Michael Parkes
- Michael Rozenvain
- Miri Rozenvain
- Ray Goodluck
- Rob Gonsalves
- Rolinda Stotts
- Sally Maxwell
- Steve Barton
- Todd White
Find Dave Archer Artwork at Marcus Ashley Gallery
Marcus Ashley Gallery’s range of gallery services is world-class. We offer the highest quality custom framing for any artwork you may purchase here as well as fully insured international shipping, financing options, and certificates of replacement value. If you live near our South Lake Tahoe gallery, we even offer private home shows and previews upon request. You’ll be able to see what a Dave Archer painting looks like in your own collection! Contact us with any questions.