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 personal experiences and background inform his artistic techniques and themes in portraiture?
**Interview with Art Historian Jane Mitchell on the Legacy of Frank Auerbach**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Jane. Frank Auerbach, a monumental figure in British art, passed away earlier this month at the age of 93. His work has often been described as groundbreaking, especially in the realm of portraiture. What do you think set Auerbach apart from his contemporaries in the London School?
**Jane Mitchell:** Auerbach’s distinct use of dense color and his unique approach to abstraction in portraiture indeed set him apart. His technique, characterized by thick layers of paint and a focus on the emotional depth of his subjects, allows viewers to engage with the art on a profound level. While other artists of the London School, like Bacon and Freud, also explored similar themes, Auerbach brought an almost sculptural quality to his work that was exceptional.
**Editor:** He had a tragic start, fleeing Nazi Germany as a child and losing his family. How do you think his background influenced his artistic expression?
**Jane Mitchell:** Auerbach’s experiences undoubtedly shaped not just his outlook on life but his approach to art. The trauma of losing his parents and escaping persecution infused his work with layers of complexity and depth. His portraits often convey a sense of struggle and resilience, reflecting both personal turmoil and the broader human condition.
**Editor:** As we reflect on his extensive career, how do you think Auerbach’s contributions will be remembered in the future? Will his unique style influence the next generation of artists?
**Jane Mitchell:** Auerbach’s legacy will likely endure through his innovative techniques and the emotional intensity of his work. He has already influenced many contemporary artists who admire his ability to convey raw emotion through abstraction. However, the question remains: in an era obsessed with digital art and instant gratification, will the traditional methods and profound exploration of the human experience that Auerbach embodied stand the test of time? It’s a fascinating discussion to have as we consider the evolving landscape of art.
**Editor:** That’s a compelling point. To our readers: How do you perceive the significance of Auerbach’s art in today’s digital age? Do you believe traditional mediums and emotional depth can maintain their relevance in a world increasingly captivated by technology? Let’s hear your thoughts!