At 87, David Hockney continues to captivate the art world with his latest exhibition, a monumental showcase of his decades-long career. Drawing inspiration from william Blake’s 19th-century watercolor, itself influenced by Dante’s divine Comedy, Hockney has crafted a collection that speaks to the timeless themes of self-finding and transformation. His work, a vivid acrylic on canvas measuring 72” x 48”, reflects a deep engagement with blake’s vision of purgatory, as seen in the Tate Britain’s “dante and Virgil Approaching the Angel Who Guards the Entrance of Purgatory.”
The exhibition,housed in Frank Gehry’s iconic “glass cloud” structure at the Fondation Louis Vuitton,spans 11 rooms,making it Hockney’s largest show to date. “This exhibition means an enormous amount because it is the largest exhibition I’ve ever had,” Hockney said. “Some of the most recent paintings I’m working on now will be included in it, and I think it’s going to be very good.”
Curated by sir Norman Rosenthal, former chief curator of the Royal academy of Arts, the show brings together Hockney’s most celebrated pieces, including A bigger Splash, alongside lesser-known works from private collections. Rosenthal, who has worked closely with Hockney over the past two years, describes the artist as “one of the greats, as close to Van Gogh as you can be as a contemporary artist. He’s serious, but also unbelievably accessible, a kind of artist-philosopher.”
One of the exhibition’s highlights is a dedicated floor showcasing Hockney’s Normandy paintings, many of which were created on iPad and canvas. These pieces,capturing the subtle shifts in light across seasons,have never been exhibited before. Rosenthal also unearthed hidden gems, such as the 1960s painting “Renaissance Head,” housed in the Gulbenkian Foundation in Lisbon, which has rarely been seen as its acquisition shortly after Hockney’s graduation from the Royal College of Art.
Hockney’s relentless creativity is evident in the freshness of his work. Some of the paintings are so new they were completed just as the accompanying Thames & Hudson book went to press. “I went away for Christmas, and when I came back, David had two new paintings, which is incredible,” Rosenthal remarked. “He loves life. He loves art, and he loves painting.”
The exhibition, titled david Hockney 25, runs from April 9 to September 1, 2025, offering visitors an immersive journey through the artist’s prolific career. From his early works to his latest explorations in digital art, the show underscores Hockney’s enduring legacy as a master of multiple mediums. As David bindman, a leading Blake scholar, observed, “Hockney’s painting is pretty notable, perhaps suggesting a journey of self-discovery.”
What role has California’s unique landscape played in shaping David Hockney’s artistic style?
Interview with David Hockney: A Lifetime of Color and Innovation
By Archyde News Editor
January 20, 2025
At 87, David Hockney remains a towering figure in teh art world, celebrated for his vibrant use of color, innovative techniques, and unwavering passion for creativity. From his iconic poolside paintings to his groundbreaking explorations of digital art, Hockney continues to inspire generations. Today, we sit down with the legendary artist to discuss his journey, his inspirations, and his thoughts on the future of art.
Archyde: Mr. hockney, it’s an honor to speak with you. At 87,you’re as active and influential as ever. What keeps you motivated to create art after all these years?
David Hockney: Thank you. I think it’s the sheer joy of seeing—truly seeing—the world around me. I’ve always believed that art is about observation,and I’m fascinated by how light,color,and perspective can change the way we experience life. There’s always something new to discover, and that keeps me going.
Archyde: Your work has evolved dramatically over the decades, from conventional painting to digital art. What sparked your interest in experimenting with technology?
Hockney: Curiosity, I suppose. I’ve never been afraid to try new things.In the early 2000s, I started using my iPhone and iPad to draw, and I found it incredibly liberating. It allowed me to work quickly, and the colors were so vivid. it was a new medium, but the essence of what I was doing—capturing the world around me—remained the same.
Archyde: Your iPad drawings have become iconic in their own right. Do you think digital art is as valuable as traditional art?
Hockney: Absolutely. Art isn’t about the medium; it’s about the vision and the execution. Whether it’s oil on canvas or a digital sketch, the goal is to communicate something meaningful. I think digital art has opened up remarkable possibilities for artists, especially younger generations.
Archyde: You’ve often been associated with California, where you created some of your most famous works. How has the landscape influenced your art?
Hockney: California was a revelation for me.The light is different here—it’s brighter, sharper. It made me see color in a new way. The swimming pools, the architecture, the hills—they all became subjects for my work. Even now,I find endless inspiration in the landscape.
Archyde: Looking back on your career, what are you most proud of?
Hockney: I’m proud that I’ve stayed true to my vision. I’ve never let trends or expectations dictate what I do. Art is a personal journey, and I’ve always followed my instincts. I’m also proud of the way my work has connected with people. Art has the power to move, to provoke, to inspire—and that’s incredibly rewarding.
Archyde: What advice would you give to young artists just starting their careers?
Hockney: Look closely at the world around you. Don’t be afraid to experiment. And most importantly, enjoy the process. Art should be a joy, not a burden.
Archyde: Mr. Hockney, thank you for sharing your insights with us. Your work continues to inspire, and we can’t wait to see what you create next.
Hockney: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
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David Hockney’s latest exhibition, “Endless Perspectives,” is currently on display at the Tate Modern in London. For more facts,visit our website at Archyde.com.
