**Frank Auerbach, Nazi Refugee, Dies At 90**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach, Nazi Refugee, Dies at 90: A Life Dedicated to Art and Resilience

Frank Auerbach, the renowned British painter known for his intensely expressive portraits and landscapes, passed away on October 27, 2023, at the age of 90. His life was marked by a profound dedication to art, fueled by the resilience of a refugee escaping Nazi persecution.

A Legacy of Resilience and Artistic Prowess

Auerbach was born in Berlin in 1931 to a Jewish family. His early life was abruptly disrupted by the rise of Nazism, forcing him to flee Germany in 1939. He arrived in England, a country that would become his home and the source of much of his artistic inspiration.

Despite the traumatic experiences of his youth, Auerbach persevered, finding solace and purpose in art. He enrolled in the prestigious Borough Polytechnic Institute in London, where he studied under the influential painter, David Bomberg. Bomberg's teaching emphasized figurative representation and a deep connection to the materiality of paint, which profoundly influenced Auerbach's own artistic style.

The Power of the Figure: A Distinctive Artistic Vision

Auerbach's artistic style is immediately recognizable for its raw, expressive energy. He was most celebrated for his portraits, which often depicted the same subjects—friends, family, and fellow artists—over and over again. These repeated portrayals allowed him to delve deeper into the human experience, capturing the essence of his subjects with astonishing detail.

His paintings are characterized by thick, impasto layers of paint, applied with a fervent intensity. The resulting textures are palpable, inviting the viewer to touch and explore the surface. Auerbach's signature style not only conveys the physical presence of his subjects but also reflects the emotional intensity of the artist's own process.

A Lifetime of Recognition: From Early Critics to Global Acclaim

Though Auerbach's unique approach to painting initially attracted controversy, he steadily gained critical acclaim throughout his career. His work was exhibited extensively in the United Kingdom and internationally, solidifying his place as one of the most significant British artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.

In 1986, Auerbach was awarded the prestigious Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contributions to art. His work is held in major public collections around the world, including the Tate Gallery in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

A Lasting Influence: Leaving a Mark on the Art World

Frank Auerbach's legacy extends beyond his own artistic achievements. His unwavering dedication to his craft and his unflinchingly direct style have inspired generations of artists. He remained a powerful voice in the contemporary art world, constantly pushing the boundaries of figuration and reminding us of the timeless power of the human figure.

Even in his passing, Auerbach's art continues to resonate, serving as a testament to the enduring power of resilience and the transformative beauty of artistic expression. His life and work will continue to be celebrated, inspiring future generations of artists and art enthusiasts for years to come.