Art lovers around the world are eagerly awaiting the upcoming auction at Sotheby’s, where one of David Hockney’s masterpieces will go under the hammer. Considered one of the most important contemporary artists, this British artist continues to fascinate critics and collectors alike. What distinguishes his work? Why do his works reach dizzying prices? Let’s take a closer look.
Hockney at Sotheby’s “L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime”
One of the most anticipated events this fall is the auction of the painting “L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime.” It is a unique composition that perfectly captures Hockney’s changing style after his move to Los Angeles. The work was created during the artist’s trip to the south of France, to the home of the famous director Tony Richardson. Hockney discovered the magic of the Mediterranean landscape. The anticipated price of this work in Sothebys is as much as $3-5 million. This puts it among the most desirable works on the contemporary art market.
Why are Hockney’s works so valuable?
David Hockney is an artist who has been constantly redefining the boundaries of painting and photography since the 1960s. His unique ability to combine the two mediums and his innovative approach to composition make his works highly regarded. In “L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime,” Hockney manipulates light, shadow and color with the precision of a master draughtsman and photographer. Instead of showing the full landscape, he focuses on the details – the architecture of the hotel and the pine tree. It is such works, balancing between abstraction and naturalism, that delight most.

His work is particularly appreciated for its ability to convey emotion through ordinary scenes from everyday life, such as swimming pools and window views. Hockney often says that painting offers something that cannot be achieved through photography – the ability to render time and space. These stretch across the canvas, allowing the viewer to have a deeper experience.
Hockney at Sotheby’s: A passionate artist
Hockney had a passion for drawing and painting from an early age. He began his career by studying at London’s Royal College of Art, but his real breakthrough came after moving to Los Angeles in the 1960s, where he created his most iconic works, such as “A Bigger Splash.” The artist was never afraid to experiment – both with techniques and subjects. He was fascinated by classical painting on the one hand and new media on the other. Hockney has been surprising for decades with his fresh perspective, and his works continue to attract collectors from all over the world.
Investing in art – is it worth it?
The example of Hockney’s work shows that investing in art can be a profitable venture. The artist’s works, from his famous paintings of swimming pools to his more recent Yorkshire landscapes, have increased in value as his career has progressed. In 2018, his painting “Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)” sold for a record $90.3 million. It is the most expensive work by a living artist sold at auction.
“L’Arbois, Sainte-Maxime” is a image full of sophistication, a testament to an ongoing passion for experimenting with form and color. The Hockney at Sotheby’s is sure to attract the attention of collectors from around the world. The work could become not only another masterpiece in a private collection, but also an excellent investment for the future.
Luxury News Editor
Malcolm Lux
Source: sothebys.com