Primrose Hill 1968

Frank Auerbach made this painting called Primrose Hill, at an undetermined date, using oil paint. The paint is laid on so thick, it’s like he’s sculpting with it! Look at the way he's built up these tangled layers, almost like the city itself is growing right out of the canvas. You can practically feel the grit and grime of the place. I'm drawn to that zig-zag of black paint slashing across the top, like a bolt of lightning or maybe just a big question mark hanging over the scene. It’s the perfect gesture to capture the feeling of a city, always changing and full of surprises. Auerbach really understands that painting is a process. There’s a similar energy to the landscapes of Joan Mitchell. Both artists share a knack for transforming ordinary places into something raw and unforgettable. It’s like they’re reminding us that art isn't about perfect images, but about capturing the messy, beautiful truth of experience.