The British textile and fashion designer Celia Birtwell has been a close friend and confidante of Hockney’s since the 1960s. Sharing northern roots and a similar sense of humor, the two found they had much in common from their first meeting and together they were at the heart of bohemian London. Hockney has always been fascinated by the changing nature of Celia’s face and she remains, to this day, one of his favorite models.
Although Celia is often described as Hockney’s “muse,” their relationship is more than that. They have always admired each other’s work and her sittings for him have been collaborations, as well as an opportunity to enjoy one another’s company. In his portraits of Celia, Hockney has always paid close attention to her bold and romantic fabric designs, some of which are inspired by his work
Artwork: © David Hockney