A Deeper Dive: David Hockney and Piero della Francesca at the National Gallery

Image Credit: The Baptism of Christ, Piero della Francesca, Room 46 image use copyright (c) of The National Gallery London

London’s National Gallery has long been a haven for art lovers, offering glimpses into the minds of some of the most influential artists in history. This year, the gallery invites visitors to take "A Longer Look" at two such artists—David Hockney and Piero della Francesca—through a unique exhibition that explores the connections between their works.

Titled "Hockney and Piero: A Longer Look," this exhibition delves into the profound impact that Piero della Francesca, a Renaissance master, has had on one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists, David Hockney.

The Exhibition: A Dialogue Across Centuries

Running until 27 October 2024, "A Longer Look" focuses on the interplay between Hockney’s modern compositions and Piero della Francesca’s Renaissance masterpieces, particularly his iconic work, The Baptism of Christ. The exhibition is not merely a comparison but a conversation between two artists separated by centuries yet connected by a shared fascination with perspective, light, and the human form.

To view a detailed image of “The Baptism of Christ” by Piero della Francesca, visit The National Gallery website here:

https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/piero-della-francesca-the-baptism-of-christ

To see a YouTube video on the painting, see here: https://youtu.be/-K05vEy4Z0A

David Hockney has often spoken of his admiration for Piero della Francesca, describing the Renaissance painter’s work as a pivotal influence on his own artistic journey. In interviews, Hockney has cited The Baptism of Christ as a piece that has "stuck with me all my life," pointing to its use of perspective and spatial arrangement as particularly inspirational. The exhibition allows visitors to see these influences firsthand, juxtaposing Hockney’s works with Piero’s in a way that highlights their thematic and stylistic connections.

In Room 46

This intimate exhibition features two of Hockney's paintings: one portraying his mother and father, and the other depicting his friend and curator, Henry Geldzahler. They are united by Piero della Francesca’s ‘The Baptism of Christ’, which serves as a thematic thread.

Both 'My Parents' and 'Looking at Pictures on a Screen' incorporate images of paintings from the National Gallery—a cherished institution in Hockney's extensive career. To Hockney, the artists whose portraits and landscapes adorn the gallery walls are akin to his contemporaries. Their works continue to inspire him profoundly, shaping his artistic vision as much as any other influence.

Hockney’s Perspective: A Lifelong Inspiration

David Hockney’s connection to Piero della Francesca goes beyond mere admiration; it is a deep-rooted influence that has shaped much of his approach to art. Hockney has often explored the concept of perspective—how we see and experience space—and this exhibition underscores how Piero’s pioneering use of mathematical perspective in the 15th century has informed Hockney’s own explorations.

In an interview with The Art Newspaper, Hockney discussed how Piero’s work has been a constant source of inspiration throughout his career. He described how Piero’s ability to create a sense of depth and harmony on the canvas resonated with his own attempts to capture the complexity of human vision. This exhibition, therefore, serves as both a tribute to Piero della Francesca and a reflection of Hockney’s enduring quest to understand and depict the world around him.

A Unique Viewing Experience

"Hockney and Piero: A Longer Look" offers a unique viewing experience, encouraging visitors to slow down and truly engage with the artworks on display. By positioning Hockney’s vibrant, contemporary pieces alongside Piero’s serene and meticulously crafted Renaissance works, the exhibition invites a deeper contemplation of how artists across different eras address similar themes. Whether it’s the exploration of light, the construction of space, or the portrayal of human figures, the dialogue between Hockney and Piero’s works provides rich insights into the evolution of artistic thought and technique.

Why You Should Visit

This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in the intersections of art history and contemporary practice. It offers a rare opportunity to see how one of today’s greatest living artists has been shaped by a master of the past. More than just a retrospective, "A Longer Look" is a meditation on the timeless nature of art and its capacity to transcend the boundaries of time and space.

Whether you are a fan of Hockney, a student of Renaissance art, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of thoughtful curation, this exhibition at the National Gallery is not to be missed. It’s an invitation to take your time, to observe, and to let the echoes of the past resonate in the present.

For more information and to plan your visit, you can check out the official exhibition page on the National Gallery's website and read more about Hockney's reflections on Piero in The Art Newspaper. To see more visit The National Gallery’s website here: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/exhibitions/hockney-and-piero-a-longer-look