Spring Cannot Be Cancelled: David Hockney in Normandy

Since his long-ago childhood in northeast England, celebrated artist David Hockney has created paintings and drawings wherever he chose to make his home. Now, he has chosen the quiet surroundings of an old French farmhouse in Normandy, a contrast to the vibrant razzmatazz in his more sophisticated settings in California, London, and New York. Well suited to the lockdown atmosphere imposed by COVID-19, he pursues his self-imposed schedule, for the present forfeiting his passion for travel.

Hockney’s creations have captivated art lovers for over sixty years. In his new memoir, Spring Cannot Be Cancelled, he exchanges conversations and correspondence with art critic Martin Gayford, a friend and collaborator for many years. They discuss art in its many forms, with Hockney sharing his philosophy as the pages blend his ideas with numerous illustrations, mostly Hockney’s work but including several classic artists of the past to emphasize his words.

Hockney resolutely continues to learn, expresses his disappointment at the limitations of photography, and shares his recognition of the iPad’s potential. He is an author as well as an artist, and reading his memoir is a rewarding chance to recognize the accomplishments of a productive lifetime.