Tuesday, October 28, 2008

#2: David Hockey.


Born in England and currently residing in Los Angeles, David Hockney is one of the most influential artists of his time due to his significant contributions to the Pop Art movement. Hockney’s work includes the famous L.A. swimming pools, photo collages, and the controversial pieces such as We Two Boys Together Clinging (1961). Inspired by Picasso, Hockney also had an interest in Cubism, as shown in his multiple paintings of Celia Birtwell. Hockney has ventured into many realms that fellow artists haven’t before, not only in the way he produces his art, but also in the experimentation with new technologies and methods.

Hockney’s later works were mostly inspired by the rugged underground scene of Los Angeles. He was fascinated with southern cities in California, especially Santa Monica, where he spent most of his time at the pier. His environment also stimulated the creation of famous pieces such as Man in Shower in Beverly Hills (1964). It was during his period in Santa Monica that he developed his unique, realistic, and natural style that he is recognized for today.

Though many artists suffer, Hockney particularly suffered because of his art. His passion to produce and create pieces sometimes ended his personal relationships and affected his living circumstances. However, his strife has paid off as he has effectively expressed a form of art that reflects true humanistic aspects. Hockney has proved that the art profession can be lived successfully solely based on a love and passion for sharing and studying art.

Hockney is also infamous for putting his love affairs on display through his works. He was known for his homosexuality, and often gave open lectures on the matter in multiple countries. His love life and homosexuality also inspired many of his famous pieces. Hockey is an artist who has mastered the ability to show emotion through his works. He expresses his past and current loves through his pieces and designs each piece of art to convey a personal message or underlying meaning. Consequently, understanding Hockney’s art is understanding Hockney himself.

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