Prominent British artists and cultural figures have offered poignant tributes to David Hockney, one of Britain's most celebrated painters, reflecting on his profound impact on their own careers and the broader art world. Their recollections paint a picture of an artist who was not only a master of his craft but also a charismatic and inspiring presence.
Rachel Whiteread, the Turner Prize-winning sculptor, shared her earliest memories of Hockney, recalling a 1970s television programme that made her think, "wow, is that what being an artist is like?" She contrasted his vibrant, embracing persona with the cooler image of artists like Bridget Riley, noting how Hockney made being an artist "look fun." Whiteread also revealed a personal connection to his work, stating, "I actually think about him every time I go swimming," captivated by his unique ability to render water and figures within it, particularly in his iconic Los Angeles swimming pool paintings. She admired his continuous artistic evolution, from his draughtsmanship to his bold, colourful works of the 1990s.
Artist Jeremy Deller hailed Hockney as a "great role model," highlighting his adventurous spirit and his pioneering approach to technology. Deller recounted a humorous incident from 2009 where Hockney designed a banner titled 'The Unrepentant Smokers' for a Manchester procession, much to the chagrin of an anti-smoking councillor. Deller noted that Hockney found the councillor's reaction amusing, underscoring his playful and unconventional nature. He also described Hockney's Lightroom immersive show as a "fun and tech savvy obituary," demonstrating his enduring engagement with new mediums.
Tacita Dean, another acclaimed artist, recounted her awe-struck first meeting with Hockney in 2014, a figure she described as "mythical" to art students of her era. She shared a particularly touching story about Hockney spontaneously sketching her son, Rufus, during a Thanksgiving visit. It was during this impromptu session that Hockney uttered the phrase, "Inspiration, she does not visit the lazy," which has since become Dean's family motto. Dean also recalled filming Hockney smoking, a project that culminated in her film 'Portraits', featuring Hockney's painting of Rufus in the background.
These personal anecdotes collectively underscore Hockney's multifaceted legacy: his technical mastery, his innovative spirit, his charming personality, and his profound influence on generations of artists. His willingness to experiment with new technologies and his unwavering dedication to painting, even in old age, continue to inspire. The tributes highlight how Hockney not only created a vast and incredible body of work but also made the art world feel more accessible and exciting.