Frank Auerbach is a renowned British artist known for his bold and expressive paintings that explore the human figure and the urban landscape. Born in 1931 in Berlin, Germany, Auerbach's family moved to England in 1939 to escape the Nazi regime. He began his artistic training at the age of 17, studying at St. Martin's School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art. Auerbach's early work was influenced by the post-war avant-garde movement, but he soon developed a distinctive style that blended elements of expressionism and figurative art.
Early Life and Career
Auerbach’s experiences as a refugee and his observations of the war-torn cityscape of London had a profound impact on his early work. His paintings from the 1950s and 1960s, such as “Reclining Figure” (1955) and “Building Site, Paddington” (1956), showcase his unique blend of gestural brushwork and intense color. Auerbach’s early success was marked by his inclusion in the 1956 exhibition “Young British Painters” at the Tate Gallery, which helped establish him as a prominent figure in the British art scene.
Style and Technique
Auerbach’s paintings are characterized by their thick, heavy brushstrokes and vibrant, clashing colors. He often works in a series, repeatedly painting the same subjects – such as his friends and family, or the London streetscape – in an attempt to capture the essence of his subjects. Auerbach’s modus operandi involves applying layer upon layer of paint to the canvas, scraping and reworking the surface until the desired texture and color are achieved. This process can take months or even years, resulting in paintings that are both visceral and intensely personal.
One of Auerbach's most famous series is his portraits of Estella Olive West, also known as "E.O.W." Auerbach met West in the 1950s, and she became a regular model and friend. The E.O.W. series, which spans over 50 years, showcases Auerbach's ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion and the nuances of the human face. Each portrait is a testament to Auerbach's technical skill and his ability to convey the complexities of the human experience.
| Artwork | Year | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| Reclining Figure | 1955 | Oil on board |
| Building Site, Paddington | 1956 | Oil on canvas |
| E.O.W. (Estella Olive West) | 1956-2007 | Oil on canvas |
Mature Work and Later Career
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Auerbach continued to refine his style, experimenting with new techniques and mediums. His paintings from this period, such as “Head of E.O.W.” (1978) and “To the Studios” (1980), showcase his ability to balance color and composition in complex and innovative ways. Auerbach’s later work has been marked by a sense of introspection and self-reflection, as he continues to explore the human condition through his art.
Auerbach's contributions to British art have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the Golden Lion at the 1986 Venice Biennale. His work can be found in the collections of major museums around the world, including the Tate Gallery, the National Gallery, and the Museum of Modern Art. Despite his success, Auerbach remains committed to his art, continuing to paint and experiment to this day.
Legacy and Impact
Auerbach’s influence on contemporary art is undeniable. His innovative use of color and texture has inspired a generation of artists, including Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon. Auerbach’s commitment to figurative art has also helped to ensure the continued relevance of traditional painting techniques in the modern era. As the art world continues to evolve, Auerbach’s work remains a testament to the power of human creativity and the enduring importance of artistic expression.
What is Frank Auerbach’s style of painting?
+Frank Auerbach’s style of painting is characterized by thick, heavy brushstrokes and vibrant, clashing colors. He often works in a series, repeatedly painting the same subjects in an attempt to capture the essence of his subjects.
What is the significance of Frank Auerbach’s E.O.W. series?
+The E.O.W. series is a collection of portraits of Estella Olive West, a model and friend of Auerbach’s. The series showcases Auerbach’s ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion and the nuances of the human face, and is considered one of the most important and enduring aspects of his work.
What awards and accolades has Frank Auerbach received for his work?
+Frank Auerbach has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, including the Golden Lion at the 1986 Venice Biennale. His work can be found in the collections of major museums around the world, including the Tate Gallery, the National Gallery, and the Museum of Modern Art.
