**Obituary: Frank Auerbach, Painter, 1931-2023**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Obituary: Frank Auerbach, Painter, 1931-2023

Frank Auerbach, a towering figure in British art, passed away on October 27, 2023, at the age of 92. His legacy as a painter of intense, expressive realism will endure, leaving behind a body of work that captures the raw essence of human experience.

A Life Dedicated to Art

Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach's life was deeply intertwined with the tumultuous events of the 20th century. He fled Nazi Germany with his family in 1939, settling in London, where he would become a naturalized citizen and make his mark on the British art scene.

Auerbach's artistic journey began at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, where he was profoundly influenced by the teachings of David Bomberg. This early tutelage instilled in him a love for the figure and a commitment to representational art.

The Essence of Form and Place

Auerbach's artistic practice revolved around the exploration of form and place. He was renowned for his figurative paintings, often focusing on his close friends and family, and the familiar streets of London. He painstakingly built up his paintings with layers of oil paint, creating a palpable sense of depth and texture. The impasto technique, where thick layers of paint are applied to the canvas, became synonymous with his style.

A Master of the Portrait

Auerbach's portraits are arguably his most celebrated works. He captured his subjects with an unflinching honesty, revealing their vulnerability and resilience. These portraits, imbued with an intense emotional charge, transcended mere likeness and offered a profound exploration of the human condition.

The immediacy of his brushstrokes, the raw energy of his paint application, and the unwavering focus on his subjects made his portraits unforgettable. His sitters, including the renowned poet E.J. Tischler, became iconic figures within his artistic universe.

A Lasting Influence

Frank Auerbach's influence extends far beyond his own prolific career. He was a respected teacher, mentoring generations of artists at the Slade School of Fine Art in London. His dedication to the craft of painting, his rigorous approach to representation, and his unwavering commitment to the human subject continue to inspire artists today.

A Legacy of Expression

Frank Auerbach's death marks a significant loss for the art world. His legacy, however, remains vibrant and enduring. His paintings, with their raw power and emotional depth, continue to resonate with viewers, offering a glimpse into the soul of the artist and the timeless beauty of the human form.

Auerbach's life and work serve as a testament to the enduring power of art to capture the essence of our world and the complexities of the human experience. His paintings will continue to be studied, admired, and cherished for generations to come.

Keywords: Frank Auerbach, obituary, painter, British art, figurative painting, impasto, portrait, E.J. Tischler, Slade School of Fine Art, art legacy