Title: Celia

Medium: Original Etching in black, 1969, J. Green paper, with full margins, signed by the artist in pencil, with publishers blond stamp below left.

Size: I. 68.4 x 54.3 cm (26 7/8 x 21 3/8 in.) S. 89.5 x 69.7 cm (35 1/4 x 27 1/2 in.)

Edition: 66/75 (there were also 16 artist's proofs)

Published by: Petersburg Press, London and New York, 1970

Note: Celia Birtwell. Birtwell was a textile designer and the wife of Ossie Clark, an established fashion designer in London during the 1960s and 1970s. Hockney is quoted as saying, “Celia is one of the few girls I know really well. I don’t bother getting the likeness in her face because I know it so well. She has many faces and I think if you looked through all the drawings I’ve done of her, you’d see that they don’t look alike.” This work and others like it, are a symbol of friendship at its inest, one that has lasted over half a century, and continues to this day.

Literature: David Hockney Prints - Tokyo Museum Catalogue 106, Scottish Arts Council 109

Condition: In very good condition

Why Buying a David Hockney Etching or Lithograph is Potentially a Sound Investment

1. Prestigious Artist with a Lasting Legacy

David Hockney is one of the most celebrated and influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. His work has been extensively exhibited and collected by major museums around the world, ensuring his place in art history. Investing in a Hockney piece means owning a work by an artist whose reputation is firmly established and widely recognized.

2. Proven Market Performance

Hockney’s works have consistently performed well in the art market. His etchings and lithographs, while more accessible than his original paintings, still command significant prices and appreciation over time. Historical auction data shows a steady increase in the value of Hockney’s prints, reflecting their enduring appeal and market demand.

3. Limited Editions and Scarcity

Many of Hockney’s etchings and lithographs are produced in limited editions, adding an element of rarity and exclusivity. Limited edition prints tend to hold and increase in value due to their scarcity. Collectors value these pieces not only for their artistic merit but also for their investment potential.

4. High-Quality Printmaking

Hockney is known for his meticulous approach to printmaking, working with master printers and using high-quality materials. His etchings and lithographs are celebrated for their technical excellence and attention to detail. This commitment to quality ensures that his prints are not only beautiful but also durable, retaining their value over time.

5. Broad Appeal and Versatility

Hockney’s art spans a wide range of subjects, from landscapes and portraits to still lifes and interiors, often characterized by vibrant colors and innovative compositions. This broad appeal makes his prints desirable to a wide audience, from seasoned collectors to those new to the art market. The versatility of his work means it can fit into various types of collections and decors.

6. Continuous Innovation and Relevance

Throughout his career, Hockney has continually reinvented his style and embraced new technologies, from Polaroid collages and fax art to iPad drawings. This willingness to innovate keeps his work fresh and relevant, attracting new collectors and maintaining interest in his oeuvre. His ability to stay at the forefront of the art world enhances the investment potential of his works.

7. Institutional Support and Visibility

Hockney’s work is frequently exhibited in major museums and galleries worldwide, ensuring ongoing visibility and recognition. High-profile exhibitions, retrospectives, and publications keep his name in the public eye and contribute to the sustained interest and value of his prints.

8. Cultural and Historical Significance

Owning a Hockney etching or lithograph connects collectors to significant cultural and historical moments. His works often reflect important themes and developments in contemporary art, making them not only visually appealing but also intellectually engaging. This cultural significance adds another layer of value to his prints.

9. Strong Secondary Market

Hockney’s prints have a strong presence in the secondary market, with many pieces achieving high prices at auction. The robust secondary market for his works indicates a healthy demand and liquidity, making it easier for collectors to sell their pieces when desired.

10. Personal Enjoyment and Aesthetic Value

Beyond financial considerations, owning a Hockney print offers personal enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure. His vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and innovative techniques provide daily inspiration and joy to their owners, enhancing the overall value of the investment.

In conclusion, buying a David Hockney etching or lithograph is potentially a sound investment due to the artist’s prestigious reputation, proven market performance, limited editions, high-quality printmaking, broad appeal, continuous innovation, institutional support, cultural significance, strong secondary market, and personal enjoyment. These factors combine to make Hockney’s prints a valuable addition to any art collection.