In preparation for the larger paintings, Hockney would make sketches, often in charcoal, sometimes in wax crayon (as here), or in felt tip. I love the way he adapts and extends the limits of the page. Job done, he is off to another motif near Warter, and The Tunnel.
Two years later in 2008 he returns to this magnificent stand of trees to make two 9-panel oil paintings, in Winter and Summer (see 17/80). His plans to follow up these Bigger Trees Nearer Warter with a Spring version the following year were dashed when the trees were all cut down. After his initial shock and a short period of grief, his resilience kicks in, first with a sketch of the devastated scene and then, by embracing the theme of destruction, with a parade of vivid pictures of tree stumps and stacks of cut timber.
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This video is an outtake from David Hockney: A Bigger Picture, an award-winning documentary by filmmaker Bruno Wollheim.
Watch the full film here: vimeo.com/2248...
Filmed over three years with unprecedented access, A Bigger Picture captures Britain’s most beloved painter at work. David Hockney’s return from California to paint the East Yorkshire landscape of his childhood - outside, in all weathers, through the seasons - culminates in the largest picture ever made outdoors. It’s an inspiring story of a painter in creative dialogue with nature and photography, and a revealing portrait of Britain’s most popular and celebrated artist.
“This wonderful film … will be of lasting importance for future generations who want to understand Hockney’s art.” Saturday Review, BBC Radio 4
“Bruno Wollheim’s portrait of this forthright magus is an unqualified, life-enhancing joy from start to finish.” - The Sunday Times
“This film may well be the best anyone will ever make about Hockney’s process.” - The Times, London.
“As gently hypnotic and fulfilling as one of Hockney’s own works.” - Time Out
“This impressive documentary is almost cinematic in its scope… both majestic and intimate” - The Observer
Watch the full documentary here: vimeo.com/2248...
All streaming supports independent documentary filmmaking.