Dave Hockney
Dave Hockney is often regarded as one of the most influential artists for the twentieth century, whose imagination is not limited to photography but primarily as a painter, draftsman and set designer. Born July 9th 1937, Hockney's interest in art was evident from a very early age, and he pursued this interest despite contempt from those otherwise inclined. Hockney's mother, Laura, held education of high importance and attempted to give her son the best schooling opportunities possible. Hockney was a bright student, but eventually became disinterested in his general studies in favour of his creative pursuits. In 1953, Hockney enrolled in the Bradford School of Art, and this was where he began painting with oils, his medium of choice for most of his life. He became more aware of his role as an artist, and realised that a process of seeing and thinking rather than simply imitation was vital for successful artwork. His work was abstract and became quite personal, reflecting his view of human sexuality and love. His commencement of education as the Painting School of the Royal College in London was a significant point in Hockney's life that enabled him to gain national attention as an artist. To begin with his work was stil
The collage technique is wholly an exploration of the distinction between what is natural and what is simply camera vision. Hockney was largely wary of the use photography, as he believed that it did not often offer the authenticity that paintings did. These 'Joiners' comprised of numerous individually photographed details comprised together to form a 'complete' picture. It was in 1966, with the experience of Hockney's first true romance, that his interest in photography grew. He questioned the photographs ability to capture a true image, when it was only one fraction of a second and could often be misinterpreted. He initially explored painting issues such as vegetarianism and poetic expression, before eventuating to the topic of his sexual orientation, a feature that is present in much of his later work. By this stage, Hockney was showcasing much of his work, and gaining attention in abundance. He also embraced the availability of fax machines, which allow him to share his art with family and friends, but excluding the monetary value of such. Hockney states that much of his attitude towards photography is due to the coming of the digital age and the ability to manipulate images. Hockney liked the idea of representing things as they were actually seen, and his photographic interest greatly advanced this skill. Hockney's experiences as a homosexual male during this time period provided a basis for much of his work, and the social life that he lived enabled his contact with other admired artists including Andy Warhol. The use of a colour laser copier in his prints allows for more vibrant colours, and he has reproduced many of his paintings in this way. The praise that he received from critics regarding the power of his art was exceptional. The inspiration that this environment provided him with is evident in much of his work from this time onwards, including well-known pieces such as Man in Shower in Beverly Hill (1964).
Common topics in this essay:
Peter Schlesinger,
Whereas Hockney,
College London,
Whilst Hockney,
Born July,
School Art,
Beverly Hill,
Los Angeles,
Dave Hockney,
Warhol Hockney,
subject matter,
'complete' picture,
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