David Abbott was born and raised in the Boston area and relocated to New York City after completing his BFA in painting, education and film at Massachusetts College of Art.

After first working in the private sector and then managing his own business, Abbott worked in the non profit area for the last ten years with organizations dedicated to human rights, environmental justice, and procuring health care and legal services for low income, physically and mentally challenged individuals.

For over twenty-five years Abbott has also volunteered at various HIV/AIDS organizations.