David Hockney: A Life

Catherine Cusset's book "David Hockney: A Life" is a captivating blend of novel and biography that offers an insightful overview of the life and art of the famous living English painter. Born in 1937 in Bradford, Hockney faced challenges throughout his career due to his homosexuality and his preference for a figurative style of art. His trips to New York and California introduced him to new scenes and new loves, and his journey through the AIDS epidemic is portrayed in the book. Cusset's writing captures Hockney's restless talent and optimism, providing a vivid portrait of the artist.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Arcadia Books

Catherine Cusset's captivating book has deeply resonated with me, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into the life of the renowned artist David Hockney. Through the eyes of an admiring novelist, Cusset provides a perfect short exposé that captures the essence of Hockney's life, showcasing his remarkable journey as seen through the lens of optimism and chance.

Hers is an affirming vision of a restless talent propelled by unwavering optimism and fortuitous encounters. The New York Times praises Cusset's meticulously researched novel for its clear, vivid prose, which skillfully weaves together to create an intimate and moving portrait of the most famous living English painter.

Born in Bradford in 1937, David Hockney faced numerous challenges in his quest to become an artist. Despite leaving home for the prestigious Royal College of Art in London, he continued to grapple with a profound sense of alienation, stemming from his homosexuality, which remained illegal at the time, as well as his preference for a figurative style of art that was not widely embraced in contemporary art circles.

However, his artistic journey took an exciting turn when he embarked on trips to New York and California, where he would spend many years and create his iconic swimming pools. These travels introduced him to new scenes and new loves, initiating a transformative journey that would span the tumultuous years of the AIDS epidemic.

David Hockney: A Life, a captivating hybrid of novel and biography, offers an insightful and captivating overview of the life and work of a painter whose art is both accessible and compelling. Cusset's portrayal of Hockney's unwavering passion to create, despite the adversities he has faced throughout his life, including heartbreak, illness, and loss, is truly inspiring.

Translated from the French by Teresa Lavender Fagan, this remarkable book has left an indelible mark on my soul, providing a profound appreciation for the artistry and resilience of David Hockney. It serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of an artist's vision.

Weight: 198g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911350804