Bradford has opened a new art gallery at Cartwright Hall, that will celebrate the work of David Hockney, ahead of the famous artist’s 80th birthday, falling this weekend. The art gallery will feature items from David Hockney’s personal albums, like family photos, being publicly shown for the first time, along with a new short film containing material of the artist working and talking at his studio in East Yorkshire. Rarely exhibited sketchbooks of his early days and the the largest collection of Hockney’s work will be on display.
Curator at Cartwright Hall, Jill Iredale, said the gallery created here will be able to show the amazing early years of the artist’s work, in context of his surroundings and family, which is only possible in his home city. The curator said it is fascinating to look closely at his work during his time here in Bradford. She added that the gallery will show the early practice and influences on the artist, who is recognised for his colourful East Yorkshire hills and sunny LA swimming pools.
Kersten England, chief executive of Bradford Council, said they were very proud to have David Hockney as one of their own, who is a great artist having decades of work to his credit. There will be a series of free events at both Lister Park and Cartwright Hall, with interactive activities, performances and workshops, to mark David Hockney’s birthday falling on Sunday.
