Early Life and Education

David Hockney, a renowned English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer, was born on July 9, 1937, in Bradford, West Riding of Yorkshire, England. He was the fourth of five children to Kenneth Hockney, a conscientious objector in the Second World War, and Laura (née Thompson), a devout Methodist and strict vegetarian.

Artistic Career

Hockney's artistic journey began at Wellington Primary School, Bradford Grammar School, and later at Bradford College of Art. He then attended the Royal College of Art in London, where he met fellow artist R. B. Kitaj. Hockney's early works showcased expressionist elements, similar to those of Francis Bacon.

Pop Art Movement and Notable Works

As a key contributor to the pop art movement of the 1960s, Hockney is considered one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century. His notable works include:

• A Bigger Splash (Pop Art), a painting that broke the record for the most expensive artwork by a living artist sold at auction in 2018.
• Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures), which sold at Christie's auction house in New York City for $90 million in 2018.
• Bigger Trees Near Warter Or Peinture Sur Le Motif Pour Le Nouvel Age Post-Photographique (Pop Art), a reflection of his time in California.

Personal Life and Later Career

Hockney has owned residences and studios in Bridlington, London, and California. He began a decade-long personal relationship with Gregory Evans in 1974, who remains his business partner as of 2019. Interesting Facts:

• Hockney's painting Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) broke the record for the most expensive artwork by a living artist sold at auction in 2018.
• He has been a teetotaler since 1990 and holds a California Medical Marijuana Verification Card for medical purposes.
• Hockney uses hearing aids, which he has used since 1979, due to his synaesthesia condition.

Explore More at WahooArt:

• Discover more of Hockney's works at David Hockney | 119 Artworks
• Learn about other influential artists at The greatest artists painters of all time
• Read about the top 5 famous pop art artists of all time at Top 5 Famous Pop Art Artists of All Time

References:

• David Hockney - Wikipedia
• David Hockney | 119 Artworks - WahooArt

Early Life and Education

David Hockney, a renowned English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer, was born on July 9, 1937, in Bradford, England. He was the fourth of five children to Laura and Kenneth Hockney, a conscientious objector during World War II. Hockney's early education took place at Wellington Primary School, followed by Bradford Grammar School, and later, he attended Bradford College of Art.

Career and Contributions

Hockney's artistic career flourished in the 1960s as a prominent figure in the Pop Art movement. His work often featured vibrant colors, bold lines, and recognizable imagery, making him one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century.

• A Bigger Splash (1966), a painting showcasing Hockney's unique style, is an exemplary piece of Pop Art.
• His double portraits, such as American Collectors (Fred and Marcia Weisman), demonstrate his ability to capture the essence of his subjects.
• Hockney's exploration of gay love in his portraiture, as seen in We Two Boys Together Clinging (1961), showcases his openness and willingness to challenge societal norms.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his illustrious career, Hockney has received numerous accolades, including:

• Appointed Order of the Companion of Honour (CH) in 2018
• Elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 2003
• Received the Laureate of the Praemium Imperiale for Painting in 2000

Online Presence and Artistic Legacy

WahooArt.com, an international fine-art print website, features Hockney's work, making it easily accessible to art enthusiasts worldwide. His paintings can be found in various online galleries, including:

• David Hockney's Artist Page on WahooArt.com
• Wikipedia's David Hockney Page

Conclusion

David Hockney's profound impact on the art world, particularly in the realm of Pop Art, is undeniable. His innovative style and willingness to explore diverse themes have solidified his position as one of the most influential British artists of the 20th century.

• View more of Hockney's work at WahooArt.com
• Explore the Pop Art movement and its notable artists on Wikipedia