He died at the age of 93, Frank Auerbach leading figure in British art history who broke new ground for his portraiture, with dense color and elements of abstraction.
The death of the painter that occurred in London was announced on Tuesday 12/11 by Frankie Rossi Art Projects, which however did not mention the cause.
Considered one of the leading names of the London School alongside Francis Bacon, Henry Moore and Lucian Freud, the artist was known for his portraits and street scenes of Camden in north London.
During a career spanning seven decades, his works, characterized by thick layers of paint, have been exhibited in the world’s leading galleries.
Born on April 29, 1931 in Berlin, Germany to Jewish parents, at the age of seven he fled to Britain to escape Nazi persecution. His parents were left behind and killed in concentration camps. Auerbach studied at the St. Martin’s in London and then the Royal College of Art, developing his signature palette of bold colors and a distinct painting style. In 1956, he held his first solo exhibition at the Beaux Arts Gallery, and by 1978, he was the subject of a major retrospective at London’s Hayward Gallery. He represented Britain at the Venice Biennale in 1986, where he and his peer Sigmar Polke were awarded the Golden Lion.
The first comprehensive study of Frank Auerbach’s portraits “Frank Auerbach: Drawings of People” that reveals their complexity was released in October 2022 and includes texts by the painter.
Source: RES
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How did Frank Auerbach’s background as a Jewish refugee influence his artistic expression and themes in his work?
**Interview with Art Historian Dr. Sarah Hargrove on the Legacy of Frank Auerbach**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Hargrove. Frank Auerbach was a monumental figure in the London School of painting, celebrated for his unique approach to portraiture and use of color. What do you think his death at 93 signifies for the contemporary art world?
**Dr. Hargrove:** It’s a significant loss, not just for British art but for the global art community. Auerbach was a trailblazer who redefined portraiture with his dense, textural style. His ability to infuse abstraction into recognizable forms has influenced countless artists. With his passing, we see the closing of a chapter in a rich artistic lineage that includes giants like Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud.
**Interviewer:** Considering his survival story as a Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany, how did his background shape his artistic vision?
**Dr. Hargrove:** Auerbach’s experiences undoubtedly influenced his work. The trauma of fleeing from persecution and the loss of his parents in concentration camps created a profound depth to his emotional and psychological landscape. His art often reflected themes of resilience and memory, which resonate deeply in his portraits.
**Interviewer:** His works, characterized by thick layers of paint, have been showcased globally. With such a unique style, do you believe contemporary artists will continue to draw inspiration from him, or has the art world moved on?
**Dr. Hargrove:** I think Auerbach’s influence will persist. His exploration of texture and emotional resonance in portraiture is timeless. While styles may evolve, the core ideas he represented about identity and memory remain relevant. However, the challenge is to see how new artists will interpret these themes within today’s technological and cultural context.
**Interviewer:** The recent comprehensive study of his portraits released in 2022 also speaks to his continued relevance. How important is it to revisit the works of established artists like Auerbach in contemporary discussions about art?
**Dr. Hargrove:** Incredibly important. As we navigate an era filled with new media and forms of expression, revisiting established artists can provide a foundation that informs our understanding of contemporary practices. Auerbach’s commitment to paint and his deep understanding of human form and emotion teach us valuable lessons that are applicable, regardless of the medium.
**Interviewer:** in light of Auerbach’s legacy, what debates do you think might emerge among art critics and enthusiasts regarding his contributions to the art world?
**Dr. Hargrove:** I anticipate lively discussions surrounding the value of traditional techniques in an ever-changing digital landscape. Some may argue that Auerbach’s methods risk becoming obsolete, while others will advocate for the enduring power of traditional craftsmanship. This debate also opens up conversations about cultural heritage in art. Does the foundation laid by artists like Auerbach still hold weight in contemporary discourse? Such questions will certainly shape how we view his legacy moving forward.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Hargrove. Your insights shed light on the complex layers of Auerbach’s influence and the ongoing dialogues in the art community.
Would you, our readers, engage with these debates? Do you believe that traditional practices can coexist with new technological advancements in art?
