David Hockney's funeral has taken place with only two attendees, honoring his explicit wish for a private ceremony. The legendary artist, who passed away peacefully at age 88 at his London home earlier this month, was laid to rest with only his long-time partner Jean-Pierre Goncalves de Lima and great-nephew Richard present.
Funeral Details and Statement
Publicist Erica Bolton confirmed the intimate service in a statement: 'The funeral has already taken place. We would like to clarify that it was David's clear wish that his funeral should be attended only by his partner, JP, and his great-nephew Richard; and that their privacy would be respected.' She added that the vast majority of his works will be given to foundations and public institutions worldwide to further his legacy.
Hockney is survived by his partner, two brothers, and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Friends Express Disappointment
Some friends expressed sadness at being unable to see Hockney in his final weeks. One friend told The Mail on Sunday: 'I've been on the phone non-stop since David died. So many of his friends feel deeply saddened that they were unable to see him during his final days. We are haunted by the idea that this man, whose art was adored around the world, might not have known how much his friends truly loved him.'
The friend added: 'This is not what David would have wanted. He would have been so upset that his friends were frozen out, particularly Celia Birtwell.' Fashion designer Celia Birtwell was Hockney's muse during their five-decade friendship.
Memorial Services Planned
Despite the private funeral, publicist Erica Bolton confirmed plans to celebrate Hockney's life next year with memorial services in Westminster Abbey, Yorkshire, Los Angeles, and Paris, 'in accordance with David's wishes.'
Tributes poured in following his death on June 11. A No 10 spokeswoman said: 'The Prime Minister is saddened to hear of the death of David Hockney, one of Britain's most celebrated artists. His vivid, instantly recognisable work influenced generations of artists, and the Prime Minister's thoughts are with his friends and family.'
Hockney's Legacy
Long considered a national treasure, Hockney's distinctive round spectacles and bleached blond hair—later replaced by flat caps—were as recognizable as his paintings. He drew inspiration from art history, from the Renaissance to Jackson Pollock's abstract expressionism, while consistently pursuing his own path and refusing to conform to artistic fashions.
An art school rebel, he was initially denied a diploma for refusing to complete an essay assignment, insisting he should be judged solely on his artwork. He once declined the opportunity to paint Queen Elizabeth II, but later designed a stained-glass window at Westminster Abbey in her tribute.
