15 Interesting Facts About Chuck Close

Introduction:

Chuck Close is one of the most iconic American painters of all time. Known for his large-scale photorealistic portraits, Close’s artwork has become widely recognized in the art world. From his pioneering print techniques to his captivating imagery, there’s no mistaking a Chuck Close painting. Here are 15 interesting facts about the iconic artist and his body of work.

Fact 1: His Technique Was Developed for a Reason

Close became paralyzed in 1988 due to a spinal artery collapse which left him unable to move his arms and legs. In order to keep painting,Close used a set of devices, called bracers, which held the paintbrush or pencil for him while he carved and shaped each piece. This type of technique led him to create his own style of painting, which utilized a grid-like system and was based on a scale.

Fact 2: His Subject Matter is His Own Face

Close’s primary subjects are devoted to a single individual: himself. He has painted over 40 self-portraits, which have been reproduced in various mediums and sizes. Despite the consistent subject matter of his artwork, Close strives to make each and every painting unique, which gives each piece a freshness and originality.

Fact 3: He Started Taking Photography Classes at Age 10

Close grew up in Everett, Washington and at the age of 10, he took some photography classes taught by the school’s art teacher. In the classes, he was taught how to develop prints and develop manual techniques. It was during these classes that Close became interested in photography and eventually began taking pictures of his family and friends in rural Washington.

Fact 4: Close Was Influenced by Abstract Expressionism

Close has often been cited as a leader of a photorealistic movement in the art world. However, throughout his career, he has drawn influences from Abstract Expressionism, which was a style characterized by boldness and experimentation. During his early works, Close used photorealistic imagery as a way to experiment with the boundaries of abstraction.

Fact 5: He Created the Photo Transfer Method

Close is well known for the invention of the photo transfer method. This process of transferring photographic images to a painting or drawing requires the artist to use a photograph as a source of reference. Close’s technique involved putting the photograph on a canvas and then manually transferring and stitching it together using graphite and an eyedropper.

Fact 6: He’s a Leader of the Pop-Art Movement

Close is often named as one of the key figures in the Pop-Art movement, which emerged in the early 1960s. His work has incorporated elements of pop culture, Celebrity culture and everyday life. His works have been exhibited alongside other prominent figures of the movement, such as Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol.

Fact 7: He Has Hosted Multiple Documentaries

Close is one of the world’s most acclaimed painters, so it’s no surprise that he has hosted multiple documentaries about his life and artwork. In 2008, he hosted the documentary “Chuck Close: A Portrait in Progress” which followed his career as an artist. The film featured interviews with prominent figures such as Philip Glass.

Fact 8: He Was Awarded the National Medal of Honor

In 2007, Close was awarded the National Medal of Arts for his accomplishments in the visual arts. This accolade recognizes individuals who “exemplify the highest standard of excellence in the areas of choreography, music, theatre, literature, visual arts, and motion picture and television production.”

Fact 9: He Collaborates With Photographers

As part of his creative process, Close often collaborates with photographers. He takes many of the photographs he needs for his paintings himself or he works with local photographers in order to capture the image he needs. Some of his vintage photographs, such as those from the Yale School of Art, have been featured in books and exhibitions.

Fact 10: He Was Influenced by Robert Rauschenberg

Before Close began his photorealistic work in the 1970s, he was heavily inspired by the works of abstract expressionist Robert Rauschenberg. Rauschenberg’s work served as an inspiration as to how Close could apply a more abstract approach to his work.

Fact 11: He Had His First Solo Exhibition in 1973

In 1973, Close had his first solo exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston. This exhibition featured some of his signature half- and quarter-view self-portraits and he has been featured in exhibitions everywhere from London to Los Angeles.

Fact 12: His Work Was Celebrated at MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art, or MoMA, in New York hosted a large retrospective of Close’s work in 1998. This exhibit was designed to encompass not only his paintings, but also photos, prints and tapestries created by Close throughout his career.

Fact 13: He Paints in Different Mediums

Close is not only a master of painting but he is also a master of sculpting as well. During his expansive career, he has painted with oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels and etchings. His works can be seen in art galleries, museums, and either private or public collections around the world.

Fact 14: He is a Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences

In 2005, Close was inducted as a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. This prestigious honor was given to recognize Close’s successful career as a painter, and his contribution to the development of contemporary art.

Fact 15: He is the Subject of Multiple Books

Due to his success in the art world,Close has been the subject of multiple books. From biographies to books about his artwork, Close’s life and work have been studied and documented by many authors and scholars.

Conclusion

Chuck Close is an internationally recognized artist who has made tremendous contributions to the art world. He is known for his pioneering print techniques, his photorealistic paintings and his unique collaborations with photographers. Through his various exhibitions, awards and books, he has solidified his rightful place as one of the preeminent artists of our time.