David Hockney (b. 1937) is one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists, renowned for his vibrant use of colour, innovative techniques, and bold depictions of modern life. Born in Bradford, England, Hockney studied at the Royal College of Art in London, where he quickly gained recognition as a leading figure in the Pop Art movement of the 1960s. His early work featured expressive line drawings and portraits, often infused with personal themes and a distinct sense of humour.
Hockney’s move to Los Angeles in the mid-1960s profoundly influenced his artistic style. There, he developed his iconic swimming pool series—such as A Bigger Splash—characterised by flat planes of colour, clean lines, and a Californian sense of light and leisure. Over the decades, his work has spanned painting, drawing, photography, and more recently, digital media, including iPad drawings and immersive video installations. Hockney's explorations of perspective and space—particularly in landscape works like those of the Yorkshire countryside—have pushed the boundaries of traditional composition.
Hockney’s work is held in major international collections, including the Tate (www.tate.org.uk) and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. A major retrospective at Tate Britain in 2017 confirmed his enduring relevance and influence. He continues to experiment with new technologies and approaches, maintaining an active creative practice well into his 80s.
The market for Hockney’s work remains exceptionally strong. His painting Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures) sold at auction in 2018 for over $90 million, briefly setting a record for a living artist. Both his original works and limited edition prints command high prices at auction and through galleries. Collectors value Hockney for his recognisable style and continual innovation.
