Hockney to Hogarth: A Rake’s Progress
David Hockney A Rake’s Progress, Plate 8a: Bedlam 1961-1963 Whitworth Art Gallery, The University of Manchester © David Hockney
6 October 2012 – 27 January 2013
The Whitworth has been presented with David Hockney’s entire print series A Rake’s Progress (1961-1963) by the Contemporary Art Society. This joins William Hogarth’s eighteenth-century series of the same title, which has been in the Whitworth’s collection since 1926. To celebrate the coming together of these great works, this exhibition showcases both versions, unravelling their tales of transformation, youth, sexual discovery and unrequited love.
Central to Hockney’s story is his first experience of America: as a young, gay, northern art student visiting New York in 1961. Exploring the artist’s re-interpretation of Hogarth’s story of influence, freedom and moral corruption, the exhibition examines this pivotal moment in Hockney’s life and practice.
Drawing on themes of American and British cultural exchange, 1960s attitudes to homosexuality and creative discovery, Hockney’s A Rake’s Progress is enriched by a selection of wonderfully vibrant paintings produced by the artist between 1960-62. Also on display are several candid drawings made during Hockney’s Bradford-based adolescence.
Kei Miller's A Rake's Progress
Kei Miller was commissioned by Manchester Literature Festival to write a sequence of poems responding to the Hockney to Hogarth: A Rake’s Progress exhibition. The resulting work was performed at an event in the Whitworth Art Gallery on Sunday 14th September.
You can download the poems from the Manchester Literature website...
Educator’s resources
Hockney to Hogarth: Teacher’s Pack
An educator’s resource is available for KS3 – KS5 students, teachers and lecturers.
Hockney to Hogarth: Portfolio Development Days
Work with an artist and undergraduates to explore the work of David Hockney and William Hogarth. A chance to develop students’ practice at KS4 – KS5, build on their portfolios and learn about career paths in the arts.
Contact Denise Bowler for further details. t: 0161 275 8455 e: denise.bowler@manchester.ac.uk
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