David Hockney’s digital obsession: now showing in Paris
Obsessed with new technology, David Hockney says he’s not alone. He has made the iPad his new canvas–and now paints with his fingers.
Hockney’s masterpiece app
Hockney trades sketch pad for iPad
Hockney’s new show in Paris, “Fleurs Fraiches” (Fresh Flowers) showcases 300 of his newer digital pieces–shown on actual iPhones and iPads. Drawing with an iPhone app called BRUSHES, it’s become a daily habit for one of the best known artists of his generation.
In 2009, Hockney told the Telegraph: “I draw flowers every day on my iPhone and send them to my friends, so they get fresh flowers every morning. And my flowers last. Not only can I draw them as if in a little sketchbook, I can also then send them to 15 or 20 people who then get them that morning when they wake up. Picasso tadalafil would have gone mad with this. So would Van Gogh. I don’t know an artist who wouldn’t, actually.”
The iconic British painter/photographer has now moved on to the larger iPad. Reviews say his digital images are “luminous,” though “less detailed.” From those I’ve seen, they are classic Hockney, with simple lines and fresh color.
iPad painting: a daily habit
The app is fun for exploratory artists as well. I’ve experimented with it on my iPhone, and I like the immediacy. Thousands of other artists are making the big switch, enjoying the freedom from bulky supplies. The big headline last year was that the cover of The New Yorker was designed by an artist using the BRUSHES app. See the process in action via this ABC news story.
View an interview with Hockney on digital art here.
David Hockney: Fleurs Fraîches – on view at the Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent in Paris through January 30.
