Artiste
Né(e) à Monroe, États-Unis
Premières années et formation
Né : 5 juillet 1940, Monroe, Washington
Décédé : 19 août 2021, Oceanside, New York
La vie précoce de Close a été marquée par une condition neuromusculaire et la dyslexie, ce qui a présenté des défis dans son enfance.
Il a fréquenté l'Everett Community College (1958-1960) avant de poursuivre ses études à l'Université de Washington (B.A., 1962).
Ses études ultérieures comprenaient l'École d'été de musique et d'art de Yale (1961) et l'Université de Yale (BFA, 1963 ; MFA, 1964).
Il a reçu une bourse Fulbright en 1964 pour étudier à l'Akademie der Bildenen Künste de Vienne.
Développement artistique et style
Close est renommé pour ses portraits photoréalistes et hyperréalistes, souvent exécutés à grande échelle.
Initialement influencé par l'expressionnisme abstrait, il a évolué vers le photo-réalisme à la fin des années 1960.
Sa technique impliquait d'utiliser un système de quadrillage pour transférer des images photographiques sur de grandes toiles, reproduisant méticuleusement les détails avec de la peinture acrylique et des techniques d'aérographe.
Il a exploré divers médias et techniques tout au long de sa carrière, notamment des motifs d'empreintes digitales et des procédés d'impression couleur.
Une caractéristique déterminante du travail de Close est l'accent mis sur les imperfections - yeux rouges, capillaires cassés - soulignant à la fois les limitations mécaniques de la photographie et les défauts inhérents aux traits humains.
Réalisations majeures et innovations
Les portraits à grande échelle de Close ont acquis une reconnaissance généralisée dans les années 1970, établissant sa position de figure de proue du photoréalisme.
Sa série « empreintes digitales » a démontré une approche innovante de la texture et de l'abstraction, utilisant ses propres empreintes digitales pour créer des dégradés subtils de gris.
Malgré sa paralysie due à une occlusion de l'artère rachidienne antérieure en 1988, Close a continué à peindre, adaptant ses méthodes et même peignant avec la bouche.
Son travail a été exposé dans le monde entier et est inclus dans d'importantes collections de musées telles que l'Art Institute of Chicago, le Museum of Modern Art (New York) et la Tate Gallery (Londres).
Influences et signification historique
Close a cité Jackson Pollock comme une influence précoce, notant un moment clé où il a rencontré les peintures au dripping de Pollock au Seattle Art Museum.
Son travail a remis en question les notions traditionnelles du portrait en mettant l'accent sur la reproduction mécanique et l'observation objective.
L'exploration par Close de l'échelle, du détail et du processus a considérablement influencé le développement du photoréalisme et de l'art contemporain.
Il est reconnu pour sa capacité à transformer la photographie en peintures monumentales qui explorent les thèmes de l'identité, de la perception et de la représentation.
Œuvres notables
Diptych Barack Obama : Un portrait saisissant en noir et blanc de l'ancien président Barack Obama.
Big Self-Portrait : Un autoportrait précoce démontrant sa technique de quadrillage à grande échelle.
Self-Portrait Spitbite White on Black : Un autoportrait en mosaïque numérique présentant des détails pixélisés.
Mark : Un portrait puissant de l'artiste Richard Serra.
Nat : Un portrait d'un ami, remarquable pour son rendu détaillé.
Musée
Exposé à Londres, United Kingdom
Un Chronicle Woven in Faces: Exploring the National Portrait Gallery’s Enduring Dialogue
Stepping through the grand entrance of the National Portrait Gallery is akin to entering a meticulously curated hall of memory – not merely a display of painted likenesses, but an immersive journey through the heart of British identity. More than just a repository for portraits, it's a vibrant dialogue spanning centuries, where brushstrokes and gazes speak volumes about ambition, struggle, social shifts, and the very soul of a nation. The Gallery doesn’t simply present art; it offers a profound understanding of how Britain has perceived itself, evolving alongside its complex social, political, and artistic landscapes. From the enigmatic allure of William Shakespeare to the resolute strength of Winston Churchill, each portrait whispers stories – glimpses into a person's life, their aspirations, their challenges, and ultimately, their lasting impact on the world.
The Gallery’s collection is a breathtaking tapestry woven from diverse artistic approaches. Early portraits, dating back to the 16th century, reveal a society steeped in symbolism – elaborate costumes, carefully chosen poses, and allegorical settings designed to convey status and virtue. Consider, for instance, the intricate detailing of John Singleton Copley’s portrait of William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield, a study in aristocratic dignity that reflects the influence of classical ideals on British artistic taste. The meticulous rendering of fabrics, the subtle nuances of expression – all served to communicate power and authority within the confines of established social norms. However, as you move deeper into the galleries, a remarkable transformation begins to unfold. Artists increasingly sought to capture not just likeness but also the inner life of their subjects, mirroring broader societal changes toward greater empathy and understanding. This shift is powerfully illustrated by Charles Jervas’s portrait of William Shakespeare – a remarkably intimate depiction that captures the playwright's intellectual intensity and shrewd observation.
The transition from formal representation to psychological insight marks a pivotal moment in portraiture history, mirroring broader societal changes toward greater empathy and understanding. The inclusion of photographic studies alongside traditional paintings is particularly noteworthy, reflecting a deliberate embrace of evolving artistic mediums and demonstrating an awareness of how portraiture itself was changing. Marcus William Adams’s early photographs of royal families, with their unprecedented detail and experimentation with color – a bold step away from the monochrome traditions of earlier eras – represent this evolution brilliantly. Alison Watt's contemporary sculptures further exemplify this spirit of innovation, exploring themes of materiality and perception in ways that resonate powerfully with modern audiences, challenging viewers to consider the very nature of representation itself. The Gallery’s commitment to showcasing both historical masterpieces and contemporary works ensures a dynamic and engaging experience for all.
The Building as a Narrative: A Victorian Masterpiece
Integral to the National Portrait Gallery's narrative is its magnificent building, designed by E.M. Barry and opened in 1856. The Portland stone façade exudes an air of stately elegance, its intricate detailing mirroring the complex social fabric of Victorian Britain. Originally conceived as a grand statement of national pride, the gallery’s architecture embodies the ambition and confidence of the era. However, the Gallery's story doesn’t end with its initial opening. Over decades, it has expanded thoughtfully, adapting to accommodate its growing collection and evolving visitor needs. The recent renovations completed in June 2023 represent a remarkable achievement – creating more welcoming spaces, improving accessibility, and meticulously preserving the building’s historic character while embracing modern design principles. This careful balance between preservation and innovation ensures that the National Portrait Gallery remains a dynamic cultural hub, capable of engaging new audiences and showcasing both historical masterpieces and contemporary works.
The original layout, with its grand halls and intimate galleries, invites contemplation and encourages visitors to linger before each portrait, absorbing not just the visual details but also the implied history behind it. Strategic placement of key artworks – such as John Singer Sargent’s stunning depiction of Hercules Brabazon Brabazon – creates a deliberate flow through the collection, guiding viewers on a journey through British history. The building itself becomes part of the narrative—a fitting backdrop for the stories unfolding within, reinforcing the connection between art and its historical context.
A Legacy of Portraits: Notable Exhibitions and Artistic Movements
The National Portrait Gallery’s collection isn't static; it actively engages with contemporary art and fosters dialogue across generations. The annual BP Portrait Prize competition serves as a vibrant testament to this ongoing conversation – a showcase of emerging talent pushing boundaries and redefining what constitutes “portraiture” in the 21st century. Past exhibitions have explored diverse artistic movements, from the Pre-Raphaelites’ romantic idealism to the bold experimentation of the early 20th-century avant-garde. The Gallery has also hosted significant retrospectives dedicated to influential artists like John Singer Sargent and Marcus William Adams, offering deeper insights into their creative processes and lasting legacies.
Furthermore, the gallery's commitment extends far beyond traditional painting, embracing photography as an equally powerful medium for capturing likeness and conveying personality. Early photographic portraits by Mathew Brady captured the solemn dignity of Civil War soldiers – a stark contrast to the opulent formality of Victorian portraiture. Today’s exhibitions explore diverse artistic perspectives, highlighting artists like Alison Watt who challenge conventions and engage with complex themes. The National Gallery in Oslo and Prague offer complementary experiences showcasing European masterpieces alongside innovative architectural designs, enriching the broader understanding of portraiture across cultures.
Beyond Likeness: Photography and Contemporary Voices
The gallery’s dedication to reflecting a diverse range of voices is evident in its ongoing efforts to expand its photographic collection. Early photographic portraits by Marcus William Adams captured the solemn dignity of Civil War soldiers – a stark contrast to the opulent formality of Victorian portraiture. Today's exhibitions explore diverse artistic perspectives, highlighting artists like Alison Watt who challenge conventions and engage with complex themes. The National Gallery in Oslo and Prague offer complementary experiences showcasing European masterpieces alongside innovative architectural designs, enriching the broader understanding of portraiture across cultures.
The gallery’s website offers a wealth of resources for visitors, including detailed information about individual portraits, thematic exhibitions, and educational programs. It's a testament to the National Portrait Gallery’s commitment to making art accessible to all, fostering a deeper appreciation for British history and culture through the captivating power of portraiture.
Notable Collections & Highlights
Royal Portraits:
A vast collection documenting monarchs from Tudor times to the present day, offering unparalleled insights into the lives and reigns of Britain’s rulers.
Literary Figures:
A remarkable array of portraits celebrating England's literary giants – Shakespeare, Dickens, Austen, Wordsworth, and countless others.
Political & Military Leaders:
Witness pivotal moments in British history through the eyes of statesmen, generals, and revolutionaries.
Contemporary Portraits:
A continually evolving collection showcasing modern figures shaping Britain’s cultural landscape.
Architectural Significance
The National Portrait Gallery's building is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, designed by E.M. Barry. The Portland stone façade, with its intricate carvings and soaring columns, embodies the grandeur and ambition of the era. Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the gallery’s design incorporates innovative features for its time, including natural light and spacious galleries – reflecting a commitment to both artistic excellence and visitor experience.
