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 technique that have left a lasting impact on modern portraiture?
**Interview with Art Historian Dr. Emily Carter on Frank Auerbach’s Legacy**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Carter. Frank Auerbach has passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in British art. How do you view his impact on portraiture and abstraction in the art world?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. Auerbach’s contribution to portraiture is monumental. He broke from traditional methods, utilizing dense colors and abstract elements that not only portrayed the subject but also evoked emotional depth. His ability to manipulate paint to create texture and form was groundbreaking and has influenced countless artists.
**Interviewer:** With such a distinctive style, Auerbach stands out alongside figures like Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud. What does this say about the London School of Art during his time?
**Dr. Carter:** The London School was a crucible for innovation, and Auerbach was at the forefront. His peers were exploring emotional intensity and existential themes, using similar techniques to challenge conventional representation. Together, they reshaped how artists and audiences perceive the human figure and the urban landscape.
**Interviewer:** Auerbach’s personal history, having fled Nazi Germany and losing his parents in the Holocaust, certainly adds layers to his work. How do you think his experiences shaped his artistic expression?
**Dr. Carter:** His traumatic past undoubtedly influenced his worldview and subsequently his art. The weight of loss and displacement can be seen in the intensity of his portraits—they often capture a struggle for identity and recognition, reflecting broader human experiences of suffering and resilience.
**Interviewer:** As we reflect on his life, with the first comprehensive study of his portraits released recently, do you think his work will gain even more recognition moving forward?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. As new generations of artists and art lovers discover his work, the depth and complexity of his portraits will likely resonate even more. Discussions around his technique and themes will invite fresh interpretations, fueling debates on the nature of portraiture itself.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of debates, Auerbach’s heavy application of paint and layered compositions can be seen as polarizing. What are your thoughts on how audiences respond to such visceral styles?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s fascinating! Some viewers are drawn to the emotionality and physicality of his work, while others might find it challenging or inaccessible. This polarization sparks dialog about what art should convey and how it engages the viewer. As Auerbach’s reputation continues to rise, it would be interesting to see how these conversations evolve.
**Interviewer:** Final question—what do you think Auerbach’s legacy will be in the long run? Will he be remembered primarily for his technique, his subject matter, or perhaps something more profound?
**Dr. Carter:** Auerbach’s legacy will likely encompass all of these aspects. His technical prowess and innovative approach to portraiture are significant, but the emotional depth he achieved and the stories behind his works will resonate through history as well. He invites us to explore the intersection of personal and collective narratives in art, which is eternally relevant.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights on Frank Auerbach. His passing is certainly a loss to the art community, but his work will undoubtedly continue to provoke thought and discussion for years to come.
**Question to the Readers:** What do you think about Auerbach’s unique style and approach to portraiture? Do you believe his influence will continue to shape future generations of artists, or do you feel another movement may emerge? Let’s hear your thoughts!
