Artwork
Untitled study for a painting
Untitled study for a painting is a watercolor work on paper by the Pop art artist David Hockney. It dates from 1967 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
It’s a study, not the final painting, exploring how water moves and looks in bright light.
David Hockney made this untitled watercolor in 1967. It’s a study, not the final painting, exploring how water moves and looks in bright light. Small sheets like this helped him test ideas before bigger works.
Hockney loved pools and sprinklers in California. He turned their sparkle into vivid colors that feel alive on paper. This one shows his playful side, mixing everyday scenes with bold strokes.
Check out more of his watery scenes at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This 1967 watercolour is a study by David Hockney, created as a precursor to a larger work. It showcases the artist's fascination with the movement and appearance of water in bright light.
Subject & Meaning
The watercolour depicts a swimming pool, with the natural quality of the water's surface contrasted against the surrounding man-made environment, including pavement and a diving board. It reflects Hockney's enthusiasm for the Californian lifestyle.
Technique & Style
Hockney employed bold strokes and vivid colours to capture the sparkle of the pool water, conveying a sense of playfulness and energy. The watercolour's loose style allowed him to experiment with ideas before committing to a larger, more finished piece.
History & Provenance
David Hockney created this work in 1967, during his time in California. It is part of a series of studies, in both watercolour and oil, that explore the behaviour of water.
Artist & collection
Artist
David Hockney is an English painter, draughtsman, printmaker, stage designer, and photographer.
