A signed print by artist David Hockney, discovered within a donated book at a Salvation Army charity shop in Norwich, has sold for £41,160. The print, depicting a swimming pool and diving board, was found tucked inside a copy of Hockney's "Paper Pools" book by a volunteer.
The influential artist, who passed away last month at the age of 88, had signed the print "David Hockney 80." The book had been donated to the Goat Lane charity shop approximately a year prior to the print's discovery. A volunteer recognized the potential value of the artwork, leading to its research and subsequent listing on The Salvation Army's Collectables and Curiosity eBay shop.
Bidding for the print reportedly escalated quickly, culminating in the substantial sale price. The anonymous buyer expressed delight at acquiring the piece, noting both its cultural significance and the contribution to the Salvation Army's charitable work. "It's wonderful to know that something with such cultural significance can also make a meaningful difference to people's lives," the buyer stated.
Jemma Banks, a volunteer and local artist who discovered the print, described it as a privilege to handle. She expressed astonishment that the artwork had remained safely preserved within the book for 46 years, retaining its pristine condition. "Paper Pools" was published in 1980 and explored Hockney's renowned swimming pool artworks and his innovative use of colored paper pulp as an artistic medium.
The Salvation Army characterized the print, found safely within the "Paper Pools" book, as an "exceptionally rare collector's piece." Hockney, a pivotal figure in English pop art, gained fame in the 1960s with his iconic swimming pool imagery, often inspired by his time in California. His career spanned seven decades, and he was honored with the Order of Merit by Queen Elizabeth II. His painting "Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)" previously set a record in 2018, selling for $90 million.
Hockney, despite facing health challenges in recent years, including a stroke in 2013 which led to him using a wheelchair, continued to create art. His exhibitions featured portraits of those in his inner circle, including carers and artisans who made his glasses. His most recent exhibition, "A Year In Normandie," was on display at the Serpentine Gallery in London until late August. He passed away peacefully at home, with King Charles III paying tribute to him as "one of life's true originals."