“In The Mood For Love: Hockney in London, 1960-1963” will open on 21 May, featuring David Hockney’s lesser-known early works. Curator Louis Kasmin highlights themes of love and personal relationships in Hockney’s evolving artistic style. The exhibition aims to provide new insights into Hockney’s creativity and sexuality during a pivotal time in his career.
David Hockney’s early works will be showcased in the exhibition “In The Mood For Love: Hockney in London, 1960-1963,” opening on 21 May at Hazlitt Holland Hibbert. This exhibition highlights Hockney’s experiments in style during his time at the Royal College of Art. Curator Louis Kasmin notes two main themes in the exhibition: the energetic “Love” paintings and a transition towards a more figurative representation of significant individuals in Hockney’s life.
Kasmin emphasizes the importance of these earlier works, which are often overlooked. He describes them as raw and full of energy, showcasing Hockney’s burgeoning reputation even at that time. The exhibition has involved multi-generational expertise, including insights from Kasmin’s grandfather, John Kasmin, who represented Hockney from the 1960s.
Art historian Marco Livingstone also contributed by identifying a key painting, “Composition (Thrust),” which was originally dated 1962 but was re-evaluated to 1960. This shift was confirmed through collaboration with the David Hockney Foundation, further enriching the exhibition’s narrative. The re-dating reveals Hockney’s exploration of sexuality and affection in a period when homosexuality was not yet legal in England.
Kasmin suggests that Hockney’s works from this era explore physicality in love and intimacy. For instance, the work titled “The Cha Cha that was Danced in the Early Hours of 24th March 1961” reflects a softer approach, showcasing Hockney’s romantic feelings. Kasmin explains that defining these early works is challenging, but the hope is that attendees will gain a new perspective on Hockney’s artistry. By presenting diverse and intriguing pieces, the exhibition aims to reveal Hockney’s unfiltered creativity and imaginative spirit.
The upcoming exhibition at Hazlitt Holland Hibbert promises to illuminate David Hockney’s formative years as an artist. By showcasing early works that delve into themes of love and identity, the exhibition provides fresh insights into Hockney’s evolution. Curator Louis Kasmin hopes that visitors will appreciate the raw energy of these rarely seen pieces, thereby enhancing their understanding of Hockney’s artistic journey.
Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com