Hockney was a draughtsman, painter, printmaker, photographer, and stage designer.
The recipient of a comprehensive creative education, Hockney attended Bradford School of Art and the Royal College of Art, earning a gold medal. He became a leading figure in Pop Art.
Influenced by Van Gogh, nature was a substantial theme for Hockney’s works. His style constantly evolved from abstract expressionism to naturalism. He was fascinated by the Old Masters and researched the painting techniques of Caravaggio and da Vinci. He concluded that they had used optics and lenses to create their masterpieces. He found that information substantial to his work.
In 1964, Hockney moved to Los Angeles, California. He had myriad interests. He made a series of paintings of swimming pools using acrylics, a new medium. He was proficient in the use of technology in his work; cameras, computers, fax machines, iPad drawing programs, among others.
Hockney took an interest in large paintings. Bigger Trees Near Warter measured 15 feet by 40 feet.
In spite of his other interests, he always returned to painting portraits. Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) and Rabbit were among his most famous and most lucrative. In addition, he took an interest in self-portraiture, painting some 300. In 2012, Hockney became a member of the Order of Merit. After a career of more than sixty years, he is still regarded as one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists and respected around the world.
