Hap Tivey: A Master Of Light, Form, And Enduring Artistic Vision
In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, certain figures stand out not just for their prolific output but for their profound influence on how we perceive and interact with art. One such luminary is Hap Tivey, a distinguished visual artist whose career spans decades, marked by an innovative exploration of light, form, and space. Known for his captivating sculptures, evocative paintings, and groundbreaking light installations, Tivey has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
Beyond his artistic prowess, Tivey's life has also garnered public interest, particularly his marriage to Liza Todd, the daughter of the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. This article delves into the multifaceted world of Hap Tivey, exploring his artistic journey, significant works, and the personal connections that have shaped his remarkable life.
The Artistic Journey: From Tangible Light to Luminous Surfaces
Hap Tivey's artistic career began in the 1960s, a period of significant experimentation and redefinition in the art world. From the outset, Tivey distinguished himself through his unique approach to light. He was among the pioneering artists who treated light not merely as an illuminator but as a tangible presence, possessing infinite depth. This early fascination laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to exploring the perceptual qualities of light and its interaction with space.
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His early works often featured sound and light installations, demonstrating his multidisciplinary approach. Tivey's sculptures and paintings also reflect this deep engagement with form and perception. For instance, his abstract drawings, derived from an aerial view of the runways at Cincinnati’s Lunken Airport, showcase his ability to transform everyday observations into profound artistic statements. His use of diverse materials such as copper, brass, red wood, and acrylic further highlights his versatility and commitment to material exploration.
A Return to Radiance: The Evolution of Light Installations
A significant turning point in Tivey's career occurred in 2004 when he returned to the format of the luminous painting with a striking installation at the New Elizabeth Leach Gallery. This marked a renewed focus on light as a central element of his work. Since then, Tivey has embarked on creating a new body of work that delves into the immense potential of LED sources as luminous surfaces. This innovative approach allows him to achieve an unprecedented level of control over light, creating immersive and ethereal experiences for viewers.
His exploration of LED technology is not just about brightness; it's about depth and perception. Tivey pushes this connection further by deploying "ganzfeld technology," a technique that creates a uniform visual field without distinct boundaries, inducing a sense of boundless space. This sophisticated use of light sources and technology truly embodies his early vision of light as a tangible, deeply immersive presence, solidifying his reputation as a groundbreaking Light and Space artist.
Notable Works and Exhibitions
Hap Tivey's extensive career is punctuated by numerous significant exhibitions and acclaimed works that have graced galleries worldwide. His art is not just seen; it is experienced, often redefining the contemporary art spaces it inhabits.
Helios: A Radiant Collection
One of his latest and most celebrated series is "Helios," which recently debuted at Art Life Gallery in Miami. Described as a "rare, luminous experience," "Helios" is a radiant collection of six new moving pieces that showcase Tivey's unique exploration of light, perception, and mythology. The grand debut of "Helios" cemented Tivey's reputation for creating immersive and thought-provoking installations that engage the viewer on multiple levels, truly exemplifying his mastery of light.
Gallery Presence and Market Value
Tivey's works have been presented in esteemed galleries such as Andon Gallery, which honored him by presenting a selection of important works curated by Anna Valverde. Andon Gallery also provided a rare glimpse into the artist's creative process with a new short film featuring a private tour of Hap's studio, offering invaluable insight into his prolific and impactful career. His earlier exhibitions include showings at Blum Helman Gallery (1976) and Irvine (1979), further solidifying his presence in the art scene for decades, dating back to the exciting days of SoHo's art explosion.
For collectors and enthusiasts, Hap Tivey's artworks are available for sale through various platforms. His work has been offered at auction multiple times, with realized prices ranging from 50 USD to 2,988 USD, depending on the size and medium of the artwork. The record price for his work at auction was achieved in 2007 for "Ashanti Arch (Silver)," which sold for 2,988 USD at Bonhams San Francisco. This demonstrates the enduring value and appeal of his unique artistic output in the art market.
The Man Behind the Art: Personal Life and Family
While Hap Tivey's artistic contributions are undeniable, his personal life has also been a subject of public interest, particularly his connection to Hollywood royalty.
Marriage to Liza Todd and Family Life
In 1984, Hap Tivey married Liza Todd, the daughter of the iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor and film producer Mike Todd. Their wedding was a private ceremony attended by family and friends. For nearly two decades, from 1984 to 2003, Liza and Hap shared a life on a 55-acre lush valley woodland property in a retro farmhouse in Manhattan (which has since been sold). During their marriage, they welcomed two sons:
- Quinn Tivey (born 1986): Quinn grew up admiring his famous grandmother, Elizabeth Taylor, always knowing her simply as "grandma" in her real life. He is reportedly involved in the entertainment industry, continuing a family tradition of public engagement.
- Rhys Tivey (born 1989): Rhys is a multi-talented artist based in NYC, truly following in his parents' artistic footsteps. He is a vocalist, trumpeter, songwriter, music producer, voice teacher, and actor. Growing up on a small horse farm in rural upstate New York, Rhys honed his musical talents from a young age, playing jazz and orchestral music. He performed in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and toured internationally with the Albany ESYO before graduating from NYU for jazz trumpet.
An Amicable Separation and New Beginnings
Liza and Hap Tivey divorced in 2003 after almost two decades of marriage. Despite the separation, their relationship remained remarkably cordial and amicable. They reportedly still live just a few miles away from each other in upstate New York, a testament to their enduring respect and shared commitment to their children's well-being. Following his divorce from Liza, Hap Tivey remarried Chiori Miyagawa and currently resides in New York, continuing his prolific career.
Hap Tivey's Enduring Influence and Legacy
Beyond his prolific artistic output, Hap Tivey has also played a significant role as an educator and mentor. He served as an artist in residence at Bard College from 2000 through 2015, sharing his knowledge and experience with a new generation of artists. His long-standing friendship with Judy Pfaff, a prominent sculptor and former chair of the studio arts program at Bard College, highlights his deep connections within the art community. Their friendship, forged during the exciting days of SoHo's art explosion, endured for five decades, marked by numerous shows, reviews, and teaching endeavors, showcasing Tivey's consistent presence and impact.
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