From April 9 to August 31, 2025, the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris has dedicated its entire expansive venue to "David Hockney 25," a monumental retrospective celebrating the lifetime achievements of one of the world’s most influential contemporary artists. This unprecedented exhibition spans over seven decades of creative innovation, showcasing more than 400 artworks across all 11 galleries of the museum Art Majeur Paris Je T’aime.
An Extensive Journey Through Seven Decades of Artistic Exploration
The show traces Hockney’s remarkable career from his early student portraits in the 1950s through his pioneering experiments in Californian light and water in the 1960s, to his recent digital paintings created on iPads and iPhones. Notably, Hockney was deeply involved in curating the exhibition, ensuring it accurately reflected his artistic evolution and creative spirit. The inclusion of large-format masterpieces such as A Bigger Splash (1967) and Bigger Trees Near Warter (2007) highlights his exceptional command of color, form, and landscape Andipa Gallery The Art Newspaper.
A Multisensory Exhibition Featuring Traditional and Digital Media
"David Hockney 25" is distinctive for embracing a broad range of media. The exhibition features oil paintings, pencil and charcoal drawings, photographic collages, and video installations that immerse viewers in the artist’s unique perspective. A remarkable aspect of the exhibition is the inclusion of Hockney's groundbreaking digital works, including animated iPad drawings that explore nature, memory, and the passage of time, illustrating how he continues to reinvent his artistic language in the digital era Observer Zarastro Art.
One of the more intriguing sections is devoted to Hockney’s portraits—over 60 in total—depicting relatives, friends, and flowers, blending acrylic techniques with digital mediums. This fusion of old and new techniques offers a fresh perspective on portraiture that speaks to Hockney’s adaptability and innovative spirit.
Nature, Technology, and Opera: Thematic Highlights
The exhibition’s galleries rotate through themes reflecting Hockney’s long-standing fascination with nature and technology. Yorkshire landscapes, such as May Blossom on the Roman Road (2009), exemplify his sensitivity to light and seasonal change. The monumental Bigger Trees Near Warter is particularly emblematic of his connection to place and nature’s vastness.
Complementing these natural themes, another striking section celebrates Hockney’s contributions to opera and stage design. His vivid stage sets for operas like Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress showcase a playful and theatrical side, reflecting his lifelong love of music and collaboration Art Emperor.
Critical Acclaim and Visitor Experience
Critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with The Art Newspaper describing the exhibition as both "a dazzling array of media" and a testament to Hockney's "relentless creativity." Visitors note the exhibition’s breadth as impressive yet intimate, with personal notebooks and rarely seen works adding depth to the visual spectacle. The architectural setting designed by Frank Gehry beautifully complements Hockney’s work, offering a light-filled environment that enhances the viewing experience Art Newspaper Review.
FAQ
Q1: When and where is the David Hockney 25 exhibition held?
A1: The exhibition runs from April 9 to August 31, 2025, at Fondation Louis Vuitton, Bois de Boulogne, Paris.
Q2: What types of works are included in the exhibition?
A2: The show includes over 400 works, featuring oil paintings, drawings, digital art, photographic collages, video installations, and stage designs.
Q3: Which periods of Hockney’s career does the exhibition cover?
A3: It spans from the 1950s early student portraits to recent digital experiments and paintings made in Yorkshire, Normandy, and London.
Q4: What are some iconic works on display?
A4: Highlights include A Bigger Splash (1967), Bigger Trees Near Warter (2007), and over 60 portraits of friends and family.
Q5: Is this exhibition different from previous Hockney retrospectives?
A5: Yes, it is the largest retrospective ever staged on Hockney and is unique for its comprehensive inclusion of digital art and multimedia installations curated with the artist’s direct involvement.
Q6: Where can I learn more or buy tickets?
A6: More information and ticket details are available on the official Fondation Louis Vuitton website.
This exhibition marks a significant celebration of David Hockney’s enduring influence, demonstrating his remarkable adaptability and sustained visionary creativity at nearly 90 years old.