**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 13, 2023, at the age of 92. Renowned for his intensely expressive and deeply personal figurative paintings, Auerbach's work has left an indelible mark on the art world. He was a painter of unparalleled dedication, meticulously building up layers of paint on his canvases, creating surfaces that seemed to vibrate with raw emotion.

A Life Dedicated to Art

Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach fled Nazi Germany with his family in 1939, eventually settling in London. His artistic journey began at the prestigious Central School of Arts and Crafts, where he later became a teacher himself. However, it was at the Royal College of Art where he truly found his artistic voice.

The Power of Repetition and Observation

Auerbach's artistic process was characterized by an unwavering focus on his subjects, primarily his close friends and lovers. He would paint them repeatedly, capturing their essence with each brushstroke. This repeated depiction, a defining feature of his work, allowed him to delve deeper into the complexities of human form and emotion. He was a master of impasto, a technique that involves applying thick layers of paint, creating textured surfaces that resonated with the weight of time and experience.

A Legacy of Influence

Auerbach's influence extends beyond his own prolific output. His raw and emotional paintings have inspired generations of artists, serving as a testament to the power of figurative art. His work continues to be exhibited in major museums and galleries worldwide, reminding us of the enduring human spirit captured in each stroke.

Key Highlights of Auerbach's Career:

• 1950s: His early work was characterized by a raw and expressionistic style, influenced by artists like Francis Bacon and Alberto Giacometti.
• 1960s: Auerbach's reputation solidified with his monumental portraits, notable for their bold use of color and thick impasto.
• 1970s-2000s: He continued to paint prolifically, exhibiting in prestigious venues such as the Tate Gallery, the Royal Academy of Arts, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Remembering a Visionary

Frank Auerbach's passing marks a significant loss for the art world. His unique vision and unwavering dedication to his craft have left a lasting impact on the contemporary art landscape. His paintings, imbued with depth and honesty, will continue to inspire and challenge generations to come.

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