14 Facts About Chuck Close

Early Life and Education

Chuck Close, an influential American painter and photographer, had a fascinating journey from his early years to his education. Here are some intriguing facts about his formative years.

1. Born on July 5, 1940, in Monroe, Washington, Close showed an early interest in art, despite struggling with severe dyslexia.
2. Close's father, Leslie, died when Chuck was just 11 years old, which deeply affected him and his family.
3. Despite his learning disabilities, Close excelled in art and eventually earned a scholarship to the University of Washington in Seattle.
4. After completing his undergraduate degree, Close attended Yale University, where he received his MFA in 1964.

Artistic Style and Techniques

Close is renowned for his unique artistic style and innovative techniques. His work often challenges traditional notions of portraiture and realism.

5. Close is best known for his large-scale, photorealistic portraits, which he creates using a grid system to transfer images from photographs to canvas.
6. He often uses a technique called "fingerprinting," where he dips his fingers in paint and applies it to the canvas, creating intricate patterns and textures.
7. Close's work frequently involves the use of a grid, which he meticulously fills with small, abstract shapes that form a cohesive image when viewed from a distance.
8. Despite suffering a spinal artery collapse in 1988 that left him partially paralyzed, Close continued to paint using a brush strapped to his wrist.

Major Works and Achievements

Throughout his career, Close created numerous iconic works and received many accolades. His contributions to the art world are significant and enduring.

9. One of his most famous works is "Big Self-Portrait" (1968), a massive black-and-white painting that established him as a leading figure in the photorealism movement.
10. Close received the National Medal of Arts in 2000, one of the highest honors given to artists in the United States.
11. His portraits of notable figures, including President Bill Clinton and composer Philip Glass, have been widely celebrated and exhibited in major museums worldwide.
12. Close's work has been featured in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Tate Modern in London, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.

Personal Life and Legacy

Close's personal life and legacy are as compelling as his art. His resilience and determination have left a lasting impact on the art community and beyond.

13. Close married Leslie Rose in 1967, and they had two daughters, Georgia and Maggie. The couple divorced in 2011.
14. Despite facing numerous physical and personal challenges, Close remained dedicated to his art until his death on August 19, 2021, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and inspiration.

Chuck Close: A Legacy of Resilience and Innovation

Chuck Close's life and work stand as a testament to resilience and innovation. Despite facing immense challenges, including a catastrophic spinal artery collapse, Close continued to create groundbreaking art that pushed the boundaries of portraiture. His unique techniques, like the use of grids and pixelation, revolutionized how we perceive faces and identity in art.

Close's influence extends beyond his own creations. He inspired countless artists to explore new methods and embrace their own limitations as strengths. His story reminds us that creativity knows no bounds, even in the face of adversity.

By understanding Close's journey, we gain insight into the power of perseverance and the endless possibilities within the world of art. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations to innovate and challenge the status quo.