Chuck close kandinsky biography
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"Process and collaboration" are two words that are essential to any conversation about Close�s prints. Close has since built a studio to accommodate his wheelchair and a two-storey, remote-control easel, where he continues to dynamically develop his artistic processes with the help of studio assistants. Earlier in the year, Close had joined Bykert Gallery, where he participated in his first New York City group exhibition with Lynda Benglis, David Paul, and Richard van Buren.
Close died of heart failure at the age of 81.
The Legacy of Chuck Close
Coming of age at a moment when Abstract Expressionism was still a major force in the art world and, for some, a rather inhibiting one, Close suggested that a return to a former category of painting, or realistic portraiture, could be a viable route for an artist's development.
Despite a spinal artery collapse in 1988 that left him partially paralyzed, Close continued to create art, adapting his methods to work with limited mobility. The devotion to the idea of an unsparing, head-on view led him to refuse all commissions, as Close used only his own "mug" and that of close friends for his subjects.
Acrylic on canvas - Walker Art Center, Minneapolis
1970
Kent
For Kent, Close made use of preparatory drawings for the first time to explore the three-color process, an imitation, or re-employment, of the photographic dye-transfer method.
These portraits not only captured physical likeness but also hinted at the intellectual and creative bond between the artist and the composer. These works required meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of human features. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. His works continue to be studied and admired for their technical brilliance and emotional depth.
His father, Leslie Durward Close, tragically passed away when Chuck was just 11 years old.
His subjects ranged from himself to family members, friends, and notable figures in the art world. Close’s life serves as a testament to the complexities of human experience, balancing extraordinary artistic achievements with profound personal challenges.
John (1971) by Chuck Close; Rob Corder, CC BY-NC 2.0, via Flickr
Chuck Close’s contributions to contemporary art extend beyond his technical prowess and innovative techniques; they embody a narrative of resilience and adaptability.
The random effects typical of printmaking inspired Close to experiment further with various media.
Mezzotint - The Museum of Modern Art, New York
1985
Fanny/Fingerpainting
Close's enjoyment of the physical interaction between artist and material gave him a particular affinity for working in the fingerprint method.
In addition, depending on the viewing distance, the painting reads as a traditional figure drawing, or as an abstract landscape of a close up, yet barely recognizable subject.
Mature Period
Close's career gained momentum from the sale of a similarly conceived Big Self-Portrait (1967-68) to the Walker Art Museum in 1969, which prompted other sales shortly thereafter.
His most famous works include large-scale portraits, and he often collaborated with others, such as contemporary composer Philip Glass. He began painting with a brush strapped to his wrist, demonstrating remarkable resilience and creativity. He often created large portraits using a grid system, breaking down images into small, detailed sections.
His works are celebrated for their meticulous detail and scale.
Collaboration With Philip Glass
Chuck Close and Philip Glass shared a deep friendship and collaborated multiple times.