Having studied Fine Art at Bristol and then Goldsmith's College, David Maddock taught art while continuing to practice as a painter. In 1989, he enrolled on the Art History master's course at the University of Leeds, where he catalogued the works of George Clausen in the Sam Wilson Bequest at the City Art Gallery, before submitting a thesis on English modernist theory between 1910 and 1914. He returned to the topic, expanding upon it, some years later when he undertook his PhD at Leicester University. He is currently Head of Art and Art History at Leicester Grammar School where, in addition to normal teaching duties, he co-ordinates a programme of exhibitions and visits to cities of cultural interest, finding time, when he can, to paint.