For many years, England’s most famous living artist was a California resident. But in 2005, with a milestone birthday (his 70th) on the horizon, David Hockney returned to Bridlington, the town of his childhood, and began one of the most prolific periods of his career. With the wooded landscape of East Yorkshire as his inspiration, Hockney set about painting his environs on a monumental scale and in brilliant, psychedelic color.
In January, the Royal Academy will pay tribute to his landscapes with a retrospective titled David Hockney RA: A Bigger Picture. In addition to showcasing Hockney’s recent work (some paintings were only completed months ago), the exhibition will also feature his photocollages from the 1980s and his Grand Canyon paintings from the 1990s, as well as recent drawings made using the iPhone and iPad — showcasing his nimbleness between artistic media and penchant for experimentation. For art lovers, the show is sure to be a highlight of 2012.
David Hockney RA: A Bigger Picture is on view January 21 – April 9, 2012. Advanced booking is recommended.
