Force of Nature

Reading the BBC news website this morning provided conclusive proof, not that it's needed, of just what a remarkable man Mr Hockney is. In the last week, he has given a press conference announcing a new Royal Academy show for 2012, casually revealed that he turned down an offer to paint the Queen because he "was very busy painting England actually. Her country.", while today '25 Trees and Other Pictures by David Hockney', featuring that breathtaking new triptych (follow the link below to see pictures and a short film) opened at Salts Mill, Saltaire. As if that's not enough, today the BBC reported that "The artist David Hockney has warned road labourers in his home town of Bridlington in Yorkshire that they are digging up one of his main sources of inspiration and a piece of art history. Hockney has taken roadwork managers to his studio to show them new paintings of Woldgate, an unspoilt country lane, and tell them not to do lasting damage...

John O'Grady, communications manager for Northern Gas Networks, said he was  "gobsmacked to be invited to the artist's studio to get a preview of works that will be on show at the Royal Academy, and to be given lunch at Hockney's home". Maybe Mr O'Grady has never heard the phrase 'keep your friends close and your enemies closer'. Not only does Mr Hockney tirelessly depict and campaign for forces of nature, he continually proves to be one himself.

* Richard Hamilton, considered the founder of Pop Art, died yesterday, aged 89. He taught and influenced David Hockney and Peter Blake, and you can link to his obituaries through the link below too.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/search/david_hockney

Post Author CM

Thanks so much for this. Great story.
The above picture is from the BBC website here http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-14912241 where you can view some truly great images. I love the above picture, gorgeous interior - is that a Franz Kline on the wall or one of Hamiltons own paintings?