Geordie Greig, a prominent journalist, has shared a heartfelt tribute to the late David Hockney, recalling a friendship that spanned nearly 50 years. Greig first encountered the renowned artist in 1977, at the age of 16, after receiving a handwritten invitation to Hockney's Notting Hill studio. He describes being immediately captivated by Hockney's charisma, wit, and strong Yorkshire accent, which were as striking as his groundbreaking art.
Hockney, who was then promoting his autobiography, was already considered an 'ultimate rock star' in the art world. Greig noted Hockney's simple yet profound artistic philosophy: art should depict beauty. This mantra, often expressed with an infectious enthusiasm, underpinned a sophisticated artistic journey that saw Hockney become one of the world's most significant artists since Picasso. His early gripes, Greig remembers, included the restrictive opening hours of English pubs compared to the '24-hour freedom' of America, reflecting his radical libertarian spirit.
Over the subsequent five decades, Greig interviewed Hockney almost annually, from his homes in Malibu and the Hollywood Hills to his residence in Bridlington. He witnessed Hockney's artistic transformations firsthand, including his work on opera sets for productions like Turandot in Chicago and The Magic Flute at Glyndebourne. Hockney's distinctive personal style, characterised by his 'chic and dandified spectacles' and tailored tweed suits, was an extension of his artistic persona, a 'subtle and beguiling peacock'.
A proud Yorkshireman, Hockney's adventurous spirit led him to depict Californian pools in the 1970s, a vibrant contrast to his Bradford origins. He became a 'sunshine artist' who redefined places like California, Yorkshire, and Normandy through his unique vision. His artistic curiosity also took him to Norway, China, and the South of France, creating an instantly recognisable 'Hockney world' through his sublime lines, masterful use of colour, and adventurous forms. His portraits, in particular, captured a world and social circle that came to define late 20th-century urban life, giving an identity to the sprawling landscape of Los Angeles.
Hockney's passing at 88 represents a significant loss to the art world, yet his legacy endures through tens of thousands of images that continue to be seen globally. His vision, which Greig describes as having 'touched everyone', cemented his status as a major interpreter of modern living across two centuries. A large exhibition at Tate Modern is reportedly scheduled for what would have been his 90th birthday, set to be a grand celebration of a true British genius.
Hockney was also known for his uncompromising nature and willingness to challenge norms. Greig recalls his strong opposition to the Bayeux Tapestry being moved to the British Museum, a stance that generated international headlines when Hockney articulated it in The Independent at 87. He also fiercely campaigned against anti-smoking lobbies and was deeply affected by the AIDS crisis, losing many friends. In 1991, Greig sat with Hockney and Stephen Spender as they signed a limited edition of his Alphabet book, with each letter wittily drawn by Hockney, to raise funds for AIDS research and combat the disease. Throughout it all, Hockney remained singularly focused on his art.
Source: Geordie Greig, The Independent