**Painter Frank Auerbach Dead At 93**

Tecfai Editorial Team

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Painter Frank Auerbach Dead at 93: A Legacy of Raw Expressionism

Renowned British painter Frank Auerbach, known for his intensely expressive and figurative works, has passed away at the age of 93. The artist, who was widely considered one of the most significant British painters of his generation, died peacefully at his home in London on October 28, 2023.

Auerbach's legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to figurative art and his unique approach to capturing the human form. He was known for his signature style, characterized by thick impasto, vibrant colors, and repeated portrayals of the same subjects, particularly his longtime muse, Julia Dray.

A Life Dedicated to Art

Born in Berlin in 1931, Auerbach fled to England with his family in 1939 to escape Nazi persecution. He began painting at a young age and attended the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, where he was exposed to the works of Francis Bacon and Lucian Freud, artists who would deeply influence his own artistic direction.

Auerbach's early works were characterized by a raw and gestural style, a direct response to the trauma of his childhood. He was drawn to the immediacy of expressionist art, employing thick layers of paint to convey the emotional intensity of his subjects.

A Master of Impasto

One of Auerbach's most defining techniques was his use of impasto, layering paint thickly on the canvas to create tactile and textured surfaces. This method allowed him to capture the depth and volume of his subjects, creating a sense of physical presence and emotional resonance.

Auerbach's repeated portrayals of the same models, particularly Julia Dray, were not mere repetitions, but explorations of human form and character. Each painting captured a new moment in time, a fleeting expression, or a subtle shift in the relationship between artist and subject.

A Lasting Impact

Throughout his career, Auerbach received numerous awards and accolades, including the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1986 and the Order of Merit in 2007. He was also the subject of several retrospectives and exhibitions, showcasing his immense talent and influence.

Frank Auerbach's passing marks a significant loss for the art world. His raw expressionism and dedication to capturing the human condition have inspired generations of artists and will continue to resonate with viewers for years to come. His legacy as a master of figurative art and a profound voice of the human experience will remain a testament to his enduring talent and artistic vision.