Frank Auerbach, a notable 20th-century artist who escaped Nazi Germany in his childhood, passed away at the age of 93 at his London home. Born in Berlin in 1931, he arrived in the UK in 1939 as part of the Kindertransport programme, which aimed to save Jewish children from the Holocaust. Auerbach’s compelling career was marked by a distinctive painting style characterised by thick layers of paint, enabling him to create dynamic landscapes and portraits. His legacy endures through his impactful artistry and influence within the post-war London art scene, having gained recognition over the decades and achieving record auction prices in later years. He is survived by his son, Jacob.

Frank Auerbach’s life and career are deeply intertwined with significant historical events, notably his childhood experiences fleeing Nazi persecution. The Kindertransport initiative facilitated his move to England, where he faced the tragic loss of his parents, who were killed in Auschwitz. His artistic journey began after studying at prestigious art institutions, leading him to develop a unique style that defied conventional artistic trends. As a prominent figure of the School of London, Auerbach’s work reflects profound emotions through abstract yet recognisable imagery.

Frank Auerbach’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the art world. His contributions as a painter highlighted the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. His unique artistic voice, formed through years of dedication and reflection, ensures that his influence will persist for future generations. The art community remembers him not only for his talent but for the profound history that shaped his life and work.

Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca

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Frank Auerbach, the prominent painter who escaped Nazi Germany as a child, has passed away at the age of 93. His gallery, Frankie Rossi Art Projects, confirmed that he died in his London home on Monday. Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach arrived in the UK in 1939 on a Kindertransport train, which was designed to rescue Jewish children during the impending horrors of World War II. Tragically, both of his parents were victims of the Holocaust.

Frank Auerbach emerged as one of the 20th century’s significant artists, known for his evocative and expressive painting style. His early experiences fleeing persecution profoundly influenced his art. Auerbach became a symbol of resilience and creativity, making substantial contributions to the art world after establishing himself in Britain. His work has been celebrated internationally and is marked by a deep engagement with the human condition and the turmoil of his early life.

The legacy of Frank Auerbach’s work extends beyond his survival of the Holocaust; it encompasses his remarkable journey as an artist who shaped modern art. His passing marks the end of an era for a unique and powerful voice in contemporary painting, thus leaving a significant void in the artistic community.

Original Source: www.washingtonpost.com

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In 1933, as Nazi book burnings ravaged Germany, a vital collection of 60,000 art-historical volumes was rescued and relocated to London, giving birth to what has been dubbed ‘the world’s weirdest library’ — the Warburg Institute. Nestled within a modest Bloomsbury building, this library uniquely curates nearly 400,000 volumes that explore the transition of symbols from ancient times to the Renaissance, embracing an unconventional cataloguing method known as the ‘law of the good neighbour’. Founded by Aby Warburg in Hamburg, the collection evolved into a noted research hub before being threatened by the rise of the Nazis. The institute’s journey to safety was facilitated by philanthropist Samuel Courtauld, and in 1944, the Warburg family formalised its future through a transfer to the University of London. A recent £14.5-million refurbishment, dubbed the ‘Warburg Renaissance’, has revitalised the space, reestablishing its unique aesthetic and inviting a broader audience. Now, the library’s original layout has been reinstated, and its intriguing organisational system preserved, enabling users to seamlessly navigate between centuries-old texts and contemporary publications. Notably, important historical artefacts and exhibitions line the revamped halls, enhancing its role as a cultural centre. Bill Sherman, the institute’s director, emphasises the commitment to bridging historical integrity with modern practices, ensuring that the Warburg remains a beacon of scholarly activity and artistic inspiration.

The Warburg Institute originated from a private collection in Hamburg, founded by Aby Warburg, who developed the field of iconology. Following the rise of the Nazis, the institute was forced to relocate to London in 1933 to preserve its extensive library of art-historical works. It became part of the University of London in 1944, and has since evolved into a significant resource for scholars and researchers alike. The recent refurbishment reflects an effort to modernise while maintaining its distinctive character, promoting accessibility and cultural engagement within the community.

The Warburg Institute stands as a remarkable testament to resilience and innovation in preserving cultural heritage. Its transformation not only safeguards the unique collection of art-historical texts but also aims to inspire a wider audience through modernisation. The combination of a rich historical framework and contemporary relevance reasserts the institute’s vital position within the academic and artistic landscape of London, ensuring that it continues to be a resource for artists, historians, and curious minds alike.

Original Source: www.christies.com

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