Aching for the perfect poolside scene to hang on your wall? Here, we take a look at two artists known for their magnificent handling of the subject: David Hockney and Massimo Vitali.

David Hockney, one of the most expensive living British artists, recently made headlines with his scathing remarks about Gerhard Richter. “To be honest, I don’t really understand Richter,” he told Monopol. “The pictures are quite nice, but also a little like the belle peinture from Paris in the 50s. And I mean that pejoratively.”

Hockney is a key figure of the Pop art movement of the 1960s and his auction records show it. His serene poolside paintings and pictures of modern houses now command millions at auction. It’s hard to believe he sold his first painting for a mere £10.

Also known for his water-filled scenes is Massimo Vitali, the Italian photographer who has captures exotic and action-packed beaches around the world. His most expensive work at auction, Rosignano (diptych) (2004), fetched $151,000 at Phillips in 2008.

“Vitali’s photos are micro elements of a larger landscape he’s looking at,” said Rachel Smith of Benrubi Gallery. “It’s all about how we consume leisure and where we go en masse.”

Indeed, Vitali’s faded out pictures of the Italian seaside reflect lives lived in leisure and are great for those who enjoy staring at beautiful people sunbathing and swimming—who wouldn’t?

The 71-year-old artist has cited Gerhard Richter and the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, which Gursky attended, as his main influences. (via artnet News)

View our David Hockney & Massimo Vitali collections here & here.

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