In a move designed to bring a touch of holiday cheer to London, artist David Hockney has created an early Christmas gift at Battersea Power Station. The artwork takes the form of a 10-minute iPad animation titled ‘Bigger Christmas Trees,’ a piece that will grace the power station’s façade until the 25th of December.
Battersea Power Station, once a significant supplier of London’s electricity, has undergone a notable transformation from a derelict structure to an open public space. It now stands as one of London’s most innovative destinations, offering opportunities for new enriching experiences.
Hockney’s animation, showcasing two Christmas trees against the backdrop of the River Thames, is on display nightly from 5 pm to 10.30 pm until December 25th of December, 2023. The artist’s use of the iPad as a creative medium brings a distinctive and festive touch to the iconic structure.
The intersection of Hockney’s artistic vision with Battersea Power Station forms a compelling link between the historical and the contemporary. As crowds gather along the River Thames to witness ‘Bigger Christmas Trees,’ they celebrate the holiday season and engage in a visual experience symbolising the enduring spirit of creative evolution.
David Hockney: A Visionary in Colour and Innovation
With a career spanning over six decades, David Hockney remains a vital figure in 20th-century British art. Renowned for his adaptability across various mediums, from traditional art forms to experiments with fax machines and iPads, Hockney consistently challenges the boundaries of creative expression.
Born on the 9th of July, 1937, in Bradford, Yorkshire, Hockney is a British artist whose prolific career has left a mark on contemporary art. Renowned for his versatility and pioneering spirit, Hockney has navigated various mediums, from traditional painting and drawing to innovative technological explorations.
Hockney’s career began at the Bradford College of Art, where he honed his skills before proceeding to the Royal College of Art in London. His early works already displayed a distinct voice, and by the 1960s, he had firmly established himself as a leading figure in the British Pop Art movement.
One of Hockney’s breakthroughs came with his painting “A Bigger Splash” in 1967, which showcased his fascination with vibrant colours and bold compositions. His exploration of LGBTQ+ perspectives and depictions of modern life set him apart in art.
In the 1970s, Hockney delved into photography, creating collages known as “joiners.” These fragmented, multi-perspective compositions added a new dimension to his body of work, reinforcing his reputation as an artist unafraid of pushing artistic boundaries.
Hockney’s move to California in the late 1960s brought about a change in scenery that greatly influenced his art. The bright Californian light and the poolside scenes became recurring motifs, synthesising his personal experiences and artistic vision.
Not confined to traditional mediums, Hockney embraced technology, particularly in the later years of his career. He utilises iPads to create intricate digital works. This adaptability showcased his commitment to exploring new avenues for creative expression.
Throughout his six-decade career, Hockney has received numerous accolades, including being appointed a Companion of Honour in 1997, receiving the Order of Merit in 2012, and being knighted in 2019. His works are celebrated globally, displayed in major museums and galleries, and continue influencing generations of artists.
David Hockney’s art is a testament to his commitment to innovation and a deep-seated belief in the power of creativity to transcend boundaries. His legacy as a visionary artist remains firmly entrenched in the history of modern art.
Photo: Courtesy Battersea Power Station Events Press Office