Frank Auerbach, Renowned Painter, Passes

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach, Renowned Painter, Passes Away at 92

London, UK - Frank Auerbach, the celebrated British painter known for his intensely expressive and physically tangible portraits and cityscapes, has passed away at the age of 92. His death, confirmed by the Marlborough Gallery, which represented him for over 60 years, marks the loss of a true artistic titan and a major figure in British art history.

Auerbach was born in Berlin in 1931, fleeing to England with his family in 1939 to escape Nazi persecution. His early life was marked by hardship and displacement, experiences that would profoundly influence his art.

He rose to prominence in the 1950s, captivating the art world with his unique approach to painting. His distinctive style, characterized by thick impasto, dramatic chiaroscuro, and a relentless focus on capturing the essence of his subjects, became his signature. His paintings were often the result of countless sittings, building layers of paint and scraping them back, ultimately revealing the raw energy and emotional depth of his subjects.

Throughout his long and illustrious career, Auerbach remained deeply committed to his chosen medium. He rarely strayed from oil paint and canvas, working tirelessly in his London studio. His dedication to his craft earned him widespread acclaim, including prestigious awards like the Order of Merit and the Turner Prize.

Auerbach's subjects were often drawn from his immediate surroundings, including his close friends, family, and the streets of London. His portraits of his partner, Julia, are particularly renowned for their intimacy and emotional power. He also captured the gritty beauty of London's urban landscape in his evocative cityscapes, often depicting the familiar streets of Mornington Crescent, Camden Town, and Primrose Hill.

Despite his immense talent, Auerbach remained humble and reserved, shunning the spotlight and focusing on his artistic vision. His art, however, speaks volumes about his humanity, his resilience, and his profound understanding of the human condition.

Frank Auerbach's passing is a significant loss to the art world. His legacy will continue to inspire and challenge generations of artists to come. His unique and profoundly moving paintings will remain as a testament to his enduring artistic vision and his unwavering dedication to the power of paint.