Celebrated British artist David Hockney dies aged 88

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. Tributes paid to David Hockney, a 'giant' and 'true icon' of British art16 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleHelen BushbyCulture reporter PA MediaPrime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has joined the art world in paying tribute to David Hockney, one of the UK's most important and influential artists, who has died at the age of 88. Sir Keir said he was "saddened" to hear of the death of "one of Britain's most celebrated artists". Alex Farquharson, director of the Tate Britain gallery, described Hockney as an "immensely important figure" and "an endlessly inventive artist, with a unique vision of the world".

Over his seven-decade career, Hockney was famous for his vibrant and innovative artworks, including landscapes of his native Yorkshire, sun-drenched paintings of Los Angeles swimming pools, and iPad portraits of his friends and family. Follow reaction and tributes to David HockneyObituary: Art's great innovator whose paintings made him a household name"His vivid, instantly recognisable work influenced generations of artists, and the Prime Minister's thoughts are with his friends and family," a Downing Street spokesman said. Farquharson remembered Hockney as someone who was "always completely and courageously himself, both in his work and in life".

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"He taught us about the joy of looking, seeing things the rest of us failed to notice - his witty and sharp observations a constant presence within his work and in person," he continued. "The loss to the art world is immense: David's passing brings to a close an extraordinary body of work characterised by reinvention. Farquharson also praised "his astonishing talent, his love for art and life, and his profound and unconventional insights", adding: "His work continues to influence our culture, far beyond the art world.

"Hockney was also a major figure in global art. The Pompidou Centre in Paris, which staged two landmark exhibitions, described him as "unquestionably one of the major figures of contemporary art". It added that the works he leaves behind remain "dazzling, alive and eternal".

Getty ImagesDavid Hockney posed in front of his painting Mr and Mrs Clark and Percy at the National Portrait Gallery in 2006Announcing his death on Friday, Hockney's representatives said: "The celebrated British artist David Hockney, one of the most important figures in contemporary art in both the 20th and 21st centuries, passed away peacefully at home on 11 June 2026, one month short of his 89th birthday. "The statement added that his "enduring legacy reflects his underlying enthusiasm for life, his outstanding sense of humour, his immense generosity, and his investigative curiosity encapsulated by his signature phrase: Love Life". The Tate said they would continue to work with Hockney's team to stage two planned projects next year.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.