'A bigger splash' by David Hockney 1967

'A bigger splash' is one of three 'spalsh' paintings made by David Hockney. However, this one is the largest and the most bewildering of all of them. It was painted in 1967, in time of optimism and colour, after overwhelming postwar years. But what is the key factor that makes this painting so iconic, even after fifty years?

This piece of art presents Californian swimming pool, which then for the British was a symbol of wealth and exlusiveness. They had a rainy weather most of the year, in contrast to people living in Los Angeles, where conducive climat allowed everyone to have a swimming pool in their yards. Hockney moved to California after graduating from the Royal College of Art in London and was amazed by relaxing and calm lifestyle led by the inhabitants.

In the frontground, the splash suggests human presence. Apart from this, painting looks rather still. In the background, there is a typical modernist architecture and the palm trees. It all remid of holidays and escapism.

Artist always wanted to capture transient moments such as a jump into the water. He used acrylic paints in bright shades to show strong, Californian light. Simple shapes and colours make the whole artwork very pleasant to look at and this is what makes it so popular.

REFERENCES

1. Hockney, D. H, 'A bigger splash' (1967), Available at: https://theartstack.com/artist/david-hockney/bigger-splash-1967

2. Kinley, C. (1992); Available at: https://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/hockney-a-bigger-splash-t03254