The Formative Years and Artistic Education
Born in Bradford, United Kingdom, David Hockney grew up in a household of five children. His father, Kenneth Hockney, worked as an accountant's clerk and had been a conscientious objector during the Second World War, while his mother, Laura, was a Methodist and a strict vegetarian. His early years were spent in the industrial landscape of Yorkshire, characterized by brick factories and bustling markets.
His formal training began at the Bradford School of Art from 1953 to 1957, where he focused on drawing from life and portraiture. He later moved to London to study at the Royal College of Art, graduating in 1962 with a Gold Medal distinction. During his time at the Royal College of Art, he was associated with the Pop Art movement.
A Shift to Los Angeles and Evolving Media
In 1964, Hockney moved to Los Angeles, a transition that altered his use of color and light. He became known for his paintings of swimming pools, often using the acrylic medium to capture vibrant colors and the movement of water. His work from this era explored the geometry of suburban life and the way light hits surfaces.
Throughout his career, Hockney has worked across various media, including:
His technical approach has included the use of reverse perspective and the camera lucida. In later years, he utilized digital tools such as iPads and various software to reimagine landscapes and capture shifting light.
