**Frank Auerbach, Painter, Dies At 93**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach, Painter Known for Gritty Portraits, Dies at 93

Frank Auerbach, a renowned British painter celebrated for his powerful, expressive portraits and landscapes, passed away on October 4, 2023, at the age of 93. His distinctive style, characterized by thick impasto and a raw, emotional intensity, earned him international recognition and cemented his place as one of the most important British artists of his generation.

A Life Dedicated to Art

Auerbach was born in Berlin in 1931 to Jewish parents. His family fled Nazi Germany in 1939, finding refuge in England. He began drawing and painting at a young age, and his artistic talent quickly became evident. He enrolled at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London in 1948 and later at the Royal College of Art, where he studied under the influential painter William Coldstream.

Auerbach's early works were influenced by the post-war London cityscape and the human condition. He often painted scenes from his immediate surroundings, focusing on the gritty realities of working-class life in the city's East End. His subjects included friends, family, and local figures, all rendered with a depth of understanding and compassion.

The Power of Impasto

One of Auerbach's most distinctive artistic features was his use of impasto, a technique that involves applying thick layers of paint to the canvas. This created a textured, almost sculptural surface, adding a visceral dimension to his paintings. The impasto technique, combined with his bold and expressive brushstrokes, conveyed a sense of immediacy and energy, capturing the essence of his subjects with raw honesty.

A Constant and Steadfast Practice

Auerbach was known for his intense focus and dedication to his craft. He painted relentlessly, often working on the same subject over extended periods, revisiting and refining his interpretations. This dedication to constant exploration and refinement was evident in his body of work, which spanned decades and showcased a continuous evolution of his artistic vision.

Recognition and Legacy

Auerbach's work gained widespread recognition throughout his career. He was awarded the Order of Merit in 2013, one of the highest honors bestowed on British citizens. His paintings are held in major collections worldwide, including the Tate Gallery, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Frank Auerbach's death marks a significant loss for the art world. His unique style, his unwavering dedication to his craft, and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience have left an enduring legacy. His paintings continue to inspire artists and viewers alike, serving as a testament to the power of art to connect us to the human condition in its rawest and most profound forms.