David Hockney: A Graphic Biography

Dynamic and accessible, this graphic novel explores the complex and multifaceted career of one of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries’ most influential and iconoclastic artists.

David Hockney’s career is highlighted by his continuous pursuit of new mediums, even as he remained steadfastly true to his identity.Told from the perspective of a contemporary and former art college friend of the artist, this graphic biography shows how Hockney’s nonconformity and fierce individualism made him famous while still a student and explores his friendships with other artists.

It illustrates his highly productive years in Los Angeles, where the region’s vibrant culture and extraordinary light inspired his famous swimming pool series as well as his portraits of wealthy Californians. Readers learn about the artist’s experimentations with photography and other technologies; his brave and heartfelt documentation of the AIDS crisis; and his lifelong fascination with color. Finally, it portrays the artist’s mature years, as he embraced digital technology to fascinating and groundbreaking affect.

Highlighting his most renowned exhibitions in museums around the world, this inspirational story comes vividly to life through the first person narrative and the imaginative graphics that express the ways a multitude of styles, themes, and personalities are woven into the life of a prolific and relentlessly creative artist.

Giovanni Gastaldi is an Italian illustrator. His interests range from comics to illustrations for children. He also collaborates with The Economist, L’Espresso, La Stampa, Mondadori, il Sole 24 Ore, and Will Media.

Monica Foggia is a writer, professor, and radio show host. She has written graphic novels on Christa Wolf, Camille Claudel, and Niki de Saint Phalle.