John Wilson McCracken
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John Wilson McCracken | |
|---|---|
| Add a Photo | |
| Born | 1936 Belfast |
| Died | 1982 |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Artist |
John Wilson McCracken (1936–1982) was a British artist known for his portraits of Hartlepool residents.
Life
Born in Belfast, McCracken moved to Birmingham at age 9 and later attended the Slade School of Art in London from 1956 to 1959.[1]
While in London, McCracken became acquainted with several artists, including Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon, through his attendance at the Colony Room Club in Soho.
In 1959, McCracken moved to Hartlepool, where he studied and subsequently taught at West Hartlepool College of Art. From 1962 to 1973, he worked as a technician at the Gray Art Gallery and Museum.[2]
During his time at the museum, McCracken was involved in bringing various artworks and exhibitions to Hartlepool. In 1972, he arranged for a London exhibition by Lucian Freud to be shown in Hartlepool, Freud's first solo exhibition outside London.[1] The same year, he was involved in the museum's acquisition of Frank Auerbach's painting 'Shell Building Site'.
McCracken's artistic style has been described as influenced by Francis Bacon, particularly in his depictions of the human form.[3] Elements reminiscent of Lucian Freud's work, such as the use of muted colours and hidden faces, can also be observed in McCracken's paintings.
McCracken was active in Hartlepool's arts scene during the 1960s, organising poetry and jazz nights.[4] His work is said to have influenced some local artists. He continued to create art despite experiencing health issues, and died aged 46.[5]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Feaver, William (2022). The Lives of Lucian Freud. London: Bloomsbury. p. 37. ISBN 9781526603562.
- ↑ McLauchlan, Karen (4 February 2011). "John McCracken, Hartlepool Art Gallery, plus other Teesside exhibitions". Reach. Teesside Live. Retrieved 18 September 2024.
- ↑ "John McCracken: His Work and Influences". Francis Bacon. The Estate of Francis Bacon. Retrieved 18 September 2024.
- ↑ "Poetry and Jazz at the Nursery Inn". Hartlepool Mail. 9 November 1972.
- ↑ "Former Hartlepool Artist Dies". Hartlepool Mail. 23 October 1982.
External links
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