Tate

'We are greatly saddened by the news of David Hockney’s death. Widely regarded as one of the most successful and recognisable artists of our time, he is an immensely important figure to Tate, with his work first entering our collection in 1963.

David was an endlessly inventive artist, with a unique vision of the world. He was always completely and courageously himself, both in his work and in life. He taught us about the joy of looking, seeing things the rest of us failed to notice - his witty and sharp observations a constant presence within his work and in person. The loss to the art world is immense: David's passing brings to a close an extraordinary body of work characterised by reinvention. He touched so many, with his astonishing talent, his love for art and life, and his profound and unconventional insights. His work continues to influence our culture, far beyond the art world.

We will be working closely with David's team to realise the two projects he was preparing for next year - a major exhibition at Tate Britain, spanning seven decades of his work, and a multimedia installation in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall, bringing to life his celebrated designs for opera sets. Following on from Tate Britain’s 2017 Hockney exhibition, the most visited in the institution’s history, it is such an honour to offer so many the chance to experience his incredible artistry.

Hockney's work will live on at Tate for generations to come, and in museums around the world. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.'

Alex Farquharson - Director, Tate Britain

📷 Andrew Dunkley, David Hockney outside Tate Britain, 1998
📷 Robert Mapplethorpe, David Hockney, 1976, printed 2003, © Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation ARTIST ROOMS Tate and National Galleries of Scotland. Presented by the Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation 2010