Frank Auerbach, Famed Painter, Dies at 90
Frank Auerbach, a renowned British figurative painter celebrated for his intensely expressive portraits and cityscapes, passed away on October 27, 2023, at the age of 90. His death marks the end of an era for British art, leaving behind a legacy of raw, emotional, and deeply personal work.
Auerbach's artistic journey began in Berlin during the Nazi era, with his family fleeing to England in 1939. He found solace in art, enrolling in the prestigious Central School of Arts and Crafts in London after the war. He was known for his rigorous work ethic, often painting the same subjects, like his muse E.R. (Ethel) Brook, for years, meticulously building up layers of paint to create a sense of depth and emotional intensity.
Auerbach's Unique Style: A Master of Impasto
Auerbach's signature style is characterized by the use of impasto, a technique involving thick layers of paint applied with a palette knife or brush. This created a highly textured surface, capturing the physicality of his subjects and conveying a sense of raw energy and emotion.
His paintings, often depicting the urban landscapes of London and the faces of his close circle, are full of life and a palpable sense of presence. The viewer is drawn into the depths of his canvases, feeling the weight of the paint and experiencing the intensity of his subject matter.
A Legacy of Recognition and Influence
Auerbach's work garnered widespread acclaim throughout his career. He was awarded the prestigious Order of Merit in 2014, one of the highest civilian honours in the United Kingdom. His paintings are held in prominent collections worldwide, including the Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery in London.
His influence on contemporary artists is undeniable. His dedication to figuration and his bold use of impasto inspired generations of painters, who continue to explore the possibilities of expressive mark-making and the power of portraiture.
The loss of Frank Auerbach is deeply felt by the art world and beyond. His work will continue to inspire and provoke, reminding us of the enduring power of art to capture the human experience in all its complexity and beauty.
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