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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**What are the key elements of Frank Auerbach’s artistic style that make his work significant in art history?**
**Interview with Art Historian Jane Collins on the Legacy of Frank Auerbach**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Jane. The recent passing of Frank Auerbach at the age of 93 has left a significant mark on the art world. What do you think his legacy will be in the context of British art history?
**Jane Collins:** Auerbach was a monumental figure, certainly on par with his contemporaries like Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud. His unique approach to portraiture, with its emphasis on texture and color, redefined how we view the human form on canvas. He has pushed the boundaries of representation in art, moving towards abstraction while still conveying deep emotional resonance.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the emotional resonance. Auerbach’s works often reflect a sense of intimacy and complexity. How do you think his personal history influenced his art?
**Jane Collins:** Auerbach’s experiences as a Jewish child fleeing Nazi Germany undoubtedly shaped his perspective. The traumas of his early life can be seen in the intensity and rawness of his work. This connection between the artist’s life and their art is crucial—his portraits are not just images; they are laden with personal history and raw emotion.
**Interviewer:** His involvement with the London School has often been highlighted. Do you think the community of artists he was part of has managed to retain its relevance in contemporary art?
**Jane Collins:** That’s an intriguing discussion point. The London School had a profound impact on the evolution of post-war British art. While many contemporary artists draw from diverse influences that go beyond the confines of this school, Auerbach’s legacy still resonates. It raises the question: is there a danger in moving too far away from such foundational styles? How do we balance innovation with the rich history of art that precedes us?
**Interviewer:** Given the complexity and depth of Auerbach’s work, what do you believe the broader public takes away from it? Is it accessible or more for art connoisseurs?
**Jane Collins:** That’s a great question. His strong use of color and form can initially seem daunting, but I believe there’s beauty in accessibility. The emotional impact of his portraits can reach anyone, regardless of their art background. The debate continues: should art be lofty and difficult, or should it strive to be emotionally engaging for a broader audience? Auerbach embodied both paths, and that duality is part of what makes his work so impactful.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Jane. As we reflect on Auerbach’s contributions, what final thoughts would you like to share with our readers about how his work should influence future generations of artists?
**Jane Collins:** Future artists should approach their work with the same fearlessness and commitment to authenticity that Auerbach exemplified. The conversation around art’s purpose—whether it is to challenge norms, provoke thought, or evoke emotion—should be grounded in a desire to connect, much like Auerbach’s portraits do. It’s crucial to engage with the past while daring to innovate. How can upcoming artists blend the lessons of the past with their unique voices? That’s where the future of art truly lies.
**Interviewer:** A thought-provoking insight to wrap up our discussion. Thank you, Jane, for sharing your expertise on Frank Auerbach’s enduring legacy. What are your views on Auerbach’s impact? Could his style influence modern portraitists, or do you think the art world has moved on?