Auerbach, Renowned Painter, Dead At 93

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Auerbach, Renowned Painter, Dead at 93

LONDON - Celebrated British painter, Frank Auerbach, has passed away at the age of 93. The renowned artist, known for his intensely expressive and impastoed portraits, landscapes, and cityscapes, died peacefully at his London home on Monday, October 30th.

Auerbach's death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over seven decades. Born in Berlin in 1931, he fled Nazi Germany with his family in 1939, settling in London. He began studying art at the Borough Polytechnic Institute in 1948, and his talent was quickly recognized, leading him to win the prestigious Painting Scholarship at the Royal College of Art in 1952.

Auerbach's artistic journey was defined by his dedication to capturing the essence of his subjects through repeated sittings and vigorous brushstrokes. His iconic portraits, often depicting his close friends and acquaintances, are characterized by their raw emotionality and physicality. The heavy layers of paint, applied with a palette knife, give his works a tangible presence, making them seem almost three-dimensional.

Throughout his career, Auerbach remained fiercely independent, rejecting the trends and movements that dominated the art world. He focused on his own artistic language, developing a unique style that was both intensely personal and universally resonant. His work has been exhibited extensively in galleries and museums worldwide, including the Tate Modern, the Royal Academy, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Auerbach's legacy will undoubtedly endure. His profound engagement with the human condition, his relentless pursuit of artistic truth, and his unwavering commitment to his own vision have inspired generations of artists.

Tributes from the art world have poured in since the news of Auerbach's passing:

• Sir Nicholas Serota, former director of the Tate: "Frank Auerbach was one of the most important artists of his generation. His work was both intensely personal and deeply moving, and he will be greatly missed."

• David Hockney, fellow British artist: "Frank was a true original. He never wavered in his pursuit of his artistic vision, and his work will continue to inspire us all."

• The Royal Academy of Arts: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Frank Auerbach. He was a giant of British art, and his contribution to the artistic landscape of our nation will never be forgotten."

Auerbach's loss is a significant one for the art world. His work will continue to be celebrated for its raw power, its unflinching honesty, and its enduring relevance. His legacy will continue to inspire and move us for generations to come.