**Frank Auerbach: A Retrospective**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach: A Retrospective – A Life in Paint

Frank Auerbach (1931-2022) was a towering figure in 20th and 21st century British art. He dedicated his life to exploring the human form through a singular and intensely personal style. This retrospective explores his artistic journey, delving into the key themes and influences that shaped his unique approach to painting.

The Early Years: Finding Form in London

Born in Berlin, Auerbach fled to England with his family during the Nazi persecution. This experience instilled in him a profound sense of displacement and longing for a stable home, themes that would resonate throughout his art. He initially studied at the Borough Polytechnic, where he met fellow artist Leon Kossoff, a lifelong friend who would later become a significant figure in his artistic development.

The Power of Repetition: Capturing Essence through Layers

Auerbach's signature style is characterized by thick, impasto paint applied in countless layers. This technique, known as "impasto," gives his paintings a textured, almost sculptural quality. Each brushstroke is deliberate, built upon the previous ones, revealing a sense of depth and complexity. This layered approach reflects Auerbach's belief in the importance of repetition and the slow, painstaking process of capturing the true essence of his subjects.

The Recurring Muse: E.O.W. and the Human Form

Throughout his career, Auerbach revisited a select group of subjects, painting them repeatedly over decades. His most iconic muse, E.O.W. (short for Esther, his lifelong partner), is a central figure in his work. These repetitive portraits, often painted in his London studio, reveal the artist's intimate understanding of his subjects, capturing not just their physical form but also their inner lives and emotional states.

The Urban Landscape: A Reflection of Place and Memory

Beyond the human form, Auerbach found inspiration in the city of London, a constant presence in his work. His paintings often capture the gritty reality of urban life, with its stark lines, weathered buildings, and bustling streets. This focus on the urban landscape reflects his own experiences as a displaced individual, seeking a sense of belonging in the city that became his home.

A Legacy of Intensity and Truth

Frank Auerbach's work is a testament to the power of observation and the relentless pursuit of artistic truth. His paintings, characterized by their raw energy, emotional depth, and unique aesthetic, have left an indelible mark on the history of modern art. This retrospective serves as a tribute to his remarkable life and a reminder of the enduring power of his artistic vision.

Keywords: Frank Auerbach, retrospective, British art, impasto, E.O.W., London, urban landscape, portraiture, human form, art history, modern art.

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Further Reading:

• "Frank Auerbach: A Life" by Martin Gayford
• "Frank Auerbach" by the Tate Gallery
• "Auerbach: Paintings 1949 - 2019" by the National Gallery

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