Don Bachardy: A Life in Portraits
Renowned artist Don Bachardy has made significant contributions to the realm of portrait drawing over a career spanning six decades. Since the mid-1960s, Bachardy has engaged a unique practice of having sitters sign their portraits, marking a collaborative effort that symbolizes profound engagement in portraiture as an art form. This interaction defines the essence of Bachardy’s artistic relationships, culminating in his recent retirement in 2022.
Signature Process
The inclusion of both artist and sitter’s signatures serves multiple purposes:
- Commitment to Authenticity: Bachardy’s method underscores his dedication to capturing the sitter from life, an essential distinction in an era increasingly dominated by photography.
- Intimate Collaboration: The sitters’ autographs denote their active participation in this artistic endeavor, emphasizing the relational performance taking place between them.
The Impact of Celebrity Culture
While Bachardy’s early sketches, inspired by Hollywood, showcased his fascination with cinema, a significant transition occurs in his work as he strives to solidify his identity as a serious artist rather than merely as a chronicler of star power. His latest exhibition, “Don Bachardy: A Life in Portraits,” currently hosted at The Huntington in San Marino, curates over 100 works that reflect a broader thematic focus beyond Hollywood.
Exhibition Overview
This exhibition not only emphasizes Bachardy’s lesser-known subjects—friends, colleagues, and various artists—but also celebrates his remarkable dedication to the art of drawing itself. The exhibition, curated by Gregory Evans, actively showcases Bachardy’s relationships within the art community, including portraits of writers, musicians, and figures from the art world.
Gallery visitors can witness intriguing pieces that illustrate profound connections with artists like James Baldwin, David Hockney, and Harold Rosenberg, effectively broadening the narrative of his artistic journey.
The Centrality of Drawing
The ongoing evolution of Bachardy’s work has allowed drawing to emerge as a respected medium in its own right, particularly noted since the 1970s. His drawings transcend mere preparation for later artworks; they encapsulate the raw and immediate thoughts of the artist. This is reflected in the masterful way he renders the human experience, often focusing on the eyes— which he considers central to capturing a subject’s essence.
Significant Lifelong Connections
A notable aspect of Bachardy’s artistic narrative is his long-term relationship with writer Christopher Isherwood, whose literary prowess complemented Bachardy’s visual artistry. Their companionship, spanning over three decades, influenced numerous works, including poignant renderings created during Isherwood’s final weeks, which capture the depth of their bond even in the face of mortality.
Reflections on Portraiture
Contrary to the popular belief that portraits should reveal inner truths about their subjects, Bachardy’s approach prioritizes the accurate recording of outward appearances. His depictions serve as vibrant interpretations of external reality, ultimately allowing viewers to connect with the emotional weight and relationships manifest in each drawing. With this perspective, the drawn portraits exemplify the twinning of vulnerability and artistry.
Exhibition Details
The Huntington’s “Don Bachardy: A Life in Portraits” is on display through August 4th. The museum is open on all days except Tuesdays, offering admission ranging from $3 to $29. Children under four can enter for free. For more information, visit the Huntington’s official website.
Conclusion
Don Bachardy’s artistic legacy, articulated through his portraits, invites audiences to appreciate not only the art of drawing but also the significance of human connection in the creation of art. As viewers engage with his work, they glimpse a rich tapestry of interpersonal narratives that have shaped his experience and practice.
