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A new exhibition has opened, displaying the early work of David Hockney with almost 40 pieces dating between 1960 to 1978 on display.
Considered to be one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, the new exhibition follows the early development of the iconic British artist, bringing together a unique selection of paintings and prints.
The exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool explores the artist’s sexuality and features a painting of his art school pin-up, Cliff Richard and shows what talent he had from an early age.
It features work from the Walker’s own collection, including Peter Getting out of Nick’s Pool, which won the John Moores Painting Prize in 1967, as well as with key pieces from the Arts Council Collection and other loans, the exhibition explores Hockney’s early influences.
Also included are a series of etchings from 1966 that the Bradford-born artist made in response to the poetry of Constantine P Cavafy.
The exhibition’s curator, Ann Bukantas, said: “David Hockney is one of the most important artists of our time. This exhibition goes back to the roots of his success, before he became an international star.
“We explore the influence of art school and life in London on Hockney’s drive to express a new artistic direction, his sexuality, and a burgeoning self-belief.
“The exhibition also follows his transformative move to sunny Los Angeles, where his work becomes more openly homoerotic and celebrates his glamorous location and way of life, alongside his rise as an international name.
“The Walker’s Peter Getting out of Nick’s Pool has a central role in the exhibition. As winner of the John Moores Painting Prize in 1967 it represents the success of this striking change in approach and technique.
“We are really excited to be working with the Arts Council Collection to include several important pieces, particularly the Cavafy series of prints and the major painting from his Royal College days, We Two Boys Together Clinging (1961).”
David Hockney: Early reflections is on display at the Walker Art Gallery until 16 March 2014.
The exhibition is part of National Museums Liverpool’s Modern Masters series and Liverpool’s Homotopia Festival 2013.