British artistic icon David Hockney was laid to rest in a private funeral attended by just two mourners last week, in accordance with his explicit final wishes. The intimate ceremony saw only his 61-year-old partner, Jean-Pierre Gonçalves de Lima, and his 33-year-old great-nephew, Richard Hockney, present. Both individuals serve as trustees of the David Hockney Foundation, which the celebrated painter established in 2008.
Hockney, renowned for his vibrant and instantly recognisable works like 'The Splash', passed away peacefully at his home on 11th June at the age of 88. His death prompted tributes from numerous public figures, including King Charles III and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, who praised his unique talent and constant innovation.
While the funeral itself was a deeply personal event, Hockney's publicist, Erica Bolton, has confirmed that a series of public memorial services will be organised to celebrate his remarkable life and extensive body of work. These commemorations are planned for various locations around the world where Hockney lived and worked, including London, his native Yorkshire, Paris, and Los Angeles.
Ms Bolton clarified the arrangements, stating: "It was David’s clear wish that his funeral should be attended only by his partner, JP, and his great-nephew Richard, and that their privacy would be respected." She also announced that the first memorial service is slated for London in spring 2027, with subsequent events to follow. In a further move to preserve his legacy, most of Hockney's private art collection will be gifted to foundations and public institutions globally.
Hockney, who declined a knighthood in 1990, once explained his aversion to public honours, stating in a 2003 interview with the Bradford Telegraph & Argus, "I do not care for a fuss. I don’t value prizes of any sort. I value my friends." Throughout his six-decade career, he is estimated to have created approximately 35,000 artworks, including the Queen Elizabeth II window at Westminster Abbey, which is a potential venue for the London memorial.
The artist's passing has significantly impacted the art market, with reports of a substantial surge in demand for his work. At Art Basel last week, a 'supply grab' of Hockney's paintings was observed, with demand reportedly increasing by over 1,200% in the 48 hours following his death. Future exhibitions include 'David Hockney: A Year in Normandie and Some Other Thoughts About Painting' at the Serpentine in London until 23rd August, and two major exhibitions at Tate Britain and Tate Modern next year.
Source: The Observer