**Frank Auerbach: Master Painter**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach: Master Painter of the Human Figure

Frank Auerbach (1931-2023) was a British painter known for his intensely expressive and deeply personal depictions of the human figure. His work, characterized by thick layers of paint, often built up over numerous sittings, is a testament to his unique artistic vision and the power of observation. Auerbach's influence on contemporary painting remains undeniable, as his dedication to the figure and his raw, emotional style continue to inspire artists worldwide.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Berlin to Jewish parents, Auerbach fled to England with his family in 1939 to escape Nazi persecution. His early artistic life was shaped by the trauma of his experiences, as well as by his deep admiration for the Old Masters, particularly Rembrandt and Van Gogh. Auerbach studied at the Borough Polytechnic and later at the Royal College of Art in London, where he developed his signature impasto technique.

A Unique Style: Impasto and the Figure

Auerbach's most iconic works are his portraits and figure studies. His use of impasto, where thick layers of paint are applied to the canvas, is both a technical and emotional element of his art. The heavy, textured surface becomes an extension of the sitter's form, capturing the essence of their physical presence and their inner life.

He frequently painted the same models over extended periods, often working from life for months or even years. This dedication to prolonged observation allowed him to delve deeper into his subjects, revealing their vulnerability, strength, and complexity.

Key Themes and Works

The Human Condition: Auerbach's art is deeply rooted in the human condition, exploring themes of vulnerability, resilience, and the passage of time. He captures the individual and the universal, imbuing his figures with a raw, emotional intensity that resonates with viewers.

Famous Models: Auerbach's paintings feature a recurring cast of characters, including his wife, Julia, the artist's model, and his friend, the poet, E. J. P. Harris. His portraits of these individuals are deeply personal and intimate, revealing the artist's close connection to his subjects.

Significant Works:

• "Head of Gerda Boehm" (1961-62): A prime example of Auerbach's early impasto technique.
• "Head of J.Y. (Juliet Yardley)" (1965-66): One of his most iconic works, showcasing his ability to capture the sitter's essence through thick paint layers.
• "Head of E. O. W. (E. J. P. Harris)" (1974-75): A portrait of the poet, known for its expressive brushstrokes and layered forms.

Auerbach's Legacy

Despite his unconventional style and the focus on the human figure, Auerbach's work garnered significant critical acclaim. He was awarded the Order of Merit in 2007, the prestigious Turner Prize in 1999, and was knighted in 2000.

Auerbach's impact on contemporary art extends beyond his own work. His commitment to the figure, his innovative approach to paint application, and his profound engagement with the human condition inspire generations of artists. The legacy of Frank Auerbach continues to resonate, reminding us of the enduring power of art to reflect, reveal, and transform our understanding of the human experience.

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