Artist Spotlight: David Hockney

yartlondon
May 13
2 min read

“I prefer living in colour" - David Hockney

One of the most influential British artists of the 20th/21st century, David Hockney is renowned for his vivid use of colour, innovative techniques, and ability to capture the essence of modern life through a constantly evolving visual language.

Rising to prominence in the 1960s, Hockney became a key figure in the pop art movement, but his work has since transcended labels. His compositions, whether sun-drenched Californian swimming pools, portraits, or Yorkshire landscapes, are celebrated for their bold palettes, emotional resonance, and formal experimentation.

Unafraid of change, in the late 2000s, Hockney began using his iPad and iPhone as digital canvases. These works, with their luminous colours and painterly immediacy, opened up new possibilities for how art can be made and experienced, proving that innovation doesn’t stop with age or tradition.

Hockney's impact on the art world is also reflected in the market. In 2018, his 1972 painting Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold for $90.3 million, setting a record at the time for the most expensive artwork sold by a living artist a testament to both his creative significance and enduring appeal.

Now in his 80s, Hockney remains a creative force. Working across painting, drawing, photography, and digital media, he continues to push the boundaries of art and digital expression. His recent works often capture fleeting moments in nature or the shifting qualities of light and space with remarkable sensitivity all of which continues to inspire artists worldwide.

Available to purchase from Clifton Gallery

16 February 2021, More Flowers In A Glass Vase

Details: iPad painting printed on wove paper 88.9 x 63.5 cm Edition of 50 Hand-signed, dated and numbered in pencil by Hockney

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The French Shop

Details: Etching with aquatint, in black and red, on wove paper 1971

53.6 x 63.5 cm Edition of 500 Numbered, signed and dated in pencil by Hockney Printed by Shirley Clement, Print Shop, Amsterdam, and published by The Observer, London

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My Pool and Terrace

Details: Coloured etching and aquatint on wove paper. From Eight by Eight to Celebrate the Temporary Contemporary Portfolio 1983 73.6 x 106 cm Edition of 250 Hand signed, numbered and dated by David Hockney

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The Arrival of Spring Royal Academy Exhibition Posters Full Set

Details:

Full set of four The Arrival of Spring, Normandy exhibition posters. Published by the Royal Academy, London

2020 Each 76.2 x 50.8 cm During the pandemic, Hockney created 116 artworks that captured Spring moments from his home in Normandy. These four artworks were chosen as the exhibition posters.

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Tulips Untitled 346 iPad Drawing