Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A first edition softcover copy of the landmark exhibition catalogue 'Hockney Paints the Stage' (1983). The title page features a bold, fluid signature by David Hockney in his signature purple felt-tip ink, accompanied by two delightful, hand-drawn green marker illustrations of theatrical characters.
Story
In 1983, David Hockney's spectacular set designs took center stage at the Walker Art Center. During the promotional tour, Hockney personalized select copies of this book with whimsical, hand-drawn characters that leaped straight from his theatrical imagination.
Maker / Origin
David Hockney (born 1937) is one of the most influential and versatile British artists of the 20th century. Famous for his vibrant California pool paintings, he revolutionized stage design in the 1970s and 80s by treating the theater as a three-dimensional canvas, designing legendary productions for the Metropolitan Opera and Glyndebourne.
Condition & Value
The book cover shows minor edge wear consistent with age. The title page is clean with bright, unfaded ink; a small pencil price inscription is visible in the upper right corner. Excellent preservation of the ink drawings commands a premium. Standard signed copies of this book sell for $300-$500.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.