Howard Hodgkin: Painting India

For popular British artist Howard Hodgkin (1932–2017), India was a source of inspiration from his first visit to the country in 1964. The first of Hodgkin’s paintings inspired by India, Indian Subject (Blue), 1965–1969, was also the first of his paintings to be painted on wood, rather than canvas. It began a long exploration of paint surface and support that became a key characteristic of his practice.

Howard Hodgkin: Painting India will be the first book to explore the influence of India on his work. The book’s illustrative journey begins with early works of the 1960s and includes paintings from throughout Hodgkin’s career including some of his last work. Featuring unpublished archival material, newly commissioned essays and an interview with the artist, this unique publication sheds light on an important strand of Hodgkin’s oeuvre and provides valuable insights into his work in general.

In this post, we take a look at some of our favourite works featured in the book.

Indian Subject (Blue), 1965-69

Bombay Sunset, 1972-73

Indian Sky, 1988-89

Afternoon, 1998-99

The Sea, Goa, 2013

Britannia Bombay, 2014-15

Howard Hodgkin: Painting India accompanies the first comprehensive exhibition exploring this enduring influence on the late artist’s work at The Hepworth Wakefield.

The book is available for purchase here.