**Frank Auerbach, Famed Painter, Dead At 90**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Frank Auerbach, Famed Painter, Dead at 90

Frank Auerbach, a renowned British painter known for his intensely expressive and often physically imposing works, died on October 26, 2023, at the age of 90. Auerbach's legacy as a significant figure in 20th and 21st century art is secure, with his powerful depictions of urban life and the human figure leaving a lasting impact on the art world.

A Life Devoted to Art

Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach fled Nazi Germany with his family in 1939. After settling in England, he began his artistic journey at the prestigious Central School of Art and Design in London. He quickly developed a distinct style, one characterized by thick impasto, a technique that builds up layers of paint on the canvas, creating a textured and almost tactile surface.

The Power of the Figure

Auerbach's art is deeply rooted in the human experience. He dedicated his life to capturing the essence of his subjects, primarily those close to him. His iconic paintings, often of his long-term partner, Julia, or his close friend, E.J. "Eppy" Osborne, are marked by their raw emotionality. The faces in his works are often contorted, their features exaggerated, a testament to the artist's relentless exploration of the complexities of human expression.

A Distinctive Style

Auerbach's approach to painting, with its emphasis on thick layers of paint and repeated reworkings of the canvas, reflects his deep-seated belief in the importance of process. The artist often worked on a single painting for years, layering paint upon paint, gradually revealing the subject beneath. This meticulous, almost obsessive approach, led to his signature style, one that is both captivating and challenging.

Critical Acclaim and Lasting Legacy

Auerbach's artistic journey was not without recognition. He received critical acclaim throughout his career, exhibiting widely and receiving prestigious awards, including the prestigious Turner Prize in 1999. Despite his advanced age, Auerbach continued to paint until his death, his passion for art undiminished.

Frank Auerbach's legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of artists. His paintings stand as powerful testaments to the enduring human spirit, the raw emotionality of the human form, and the transformative power of art. The world of art has lost a truly exceptional artist, but his work will continue to speak to audiences for years to come.