The Portland Art Museum bursts into color with David Hockney: Works from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation this month. The exhibition is a major celebration of one of the most influential artists of our time. Bringing together more than 200 prints, collages, video works, and photographic and iPad drawings spanning six decades, the exhibition is the largest North American survey of Hockney’s work. 

The viewing experience promises to be both visually dazzling and surprisingly intimate. Hockney is best known for vivid scenes shaped by his passion for the natural world and for human connection. Iconic subjects and series appear throughout, including sunlit California swimming pools, the monumental presence of Yosemite, and British landscapes in full bloom. These images are joined by more personal portrayals—friends, family, and expressions of queer desire—offering a fuller portrait of an artist whose work moves fluidly between spectacle and tenderness.

“Hockney’s colorful, fresh perspectives encourage us to reconsider everyday objects, faces, and places of our rapidly changing contemporary world in whimsical new ways,” said Catherine Whitney, Honolulu Museum of Art Director of Curatorial Affairs and exhibition consulting curator. 

Throughout his career, Hockney has pursued a deeper understanding of how artists translate perception. He has studied historical modes of representation, from the expansive spaces of traditional Chinese scrolls to the condensed dimensionality of Cubism and the linear perspective of the Italian Renaissance. He has also explored optical devices like mirrors and the camera obscura, while embracing modern tools such as copy machines, photo-editing software, and, most famously, iPhones and iPads.The exhibition sheds light on Hockney’s long fascination with technology—not simply as a tool, but as a channel for artistic creation and human connection. Visitors will have the opportunity to try their hand at iPad creations as part of the exhibition or take a Drawing, Animation, & AR Storytelling class at PAM CUT to channel their inner David Hockney. 

Related to events to shift your own perspectives 

David Hockney: An Opening Conversation
February 15 | 2 p.m.
Celebrate the opening of the David Hockney exhibition with a special conversation exploring the artist’s life and creative process. Featuring Doug Roberts, art dealer and longtime friend of Hockney; Kimberly Davis, Director at L.A. Louver Gallery; and Jordan D. Schnitzer, art collector, philanthropist, and founder of the Jordan Schnitzer Family Foundation, the discussion will blend personal stories and professional insights, highlighting key moments across Hockney’s expansive career. Moderated by Catherine Whitney, Guest Curator of the exhibition.

Drawing Club: David Hockney Edition
March 8, April 12, May 10, June 14 | 1 - 4 p.m.
An in-gallery drawing workshop series led by teaching artists Fry and Julz Clementine, who bring expertise in both traditional and digital tools. Choose a single session or commit to the full series, and get inspired by the David Hockney exhibition. Through guided exercises, close looking, and lively conversation, you’ll build confidence, sharpen observation, and leave inspired to keep drawing. Registration includes one adult PAM admission. All supplies are provided, with optional personal materials limited to artwork-safe drawing tools.

Hockney + High-tech // Procreate Drawing, Animation, & AR Storytelling
March 23 - 24 | 1 - 5 p.m.
Step outside the frame in this two-day digital art and augmented reality (AR) workshop inspired by the David Hockney exhibition. Guided by Teaching Artist and Digital Illustrator Fry and Creative Technologist Sonya Neunzert, participants will explore Hockney’s bold approach while creating original drawings and animations. Using iPads, Procreate, and custom AR code, you’ll bring your work to life—layering movement, color, and imagination.

Film Series: Pretty, Witty, and Gay
April 25 - summer | Saturdays and Sundays, 2 pm

PAM CUT @ The Whitsell presents: Pretty, Witty, and Gay: A film series loosely in conversation with the David Hockney exhibition, featuring distinctive, thoughtful, and must-see films— inspired by Hockney's oeuvre—playing Saturdays and Sundays beginning in May and running throughout the summer.

VISIT

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free First Thursdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

TICKETS

Free | Members
Free | Children 17 and under
$27.50 | Adults
$24.50 | Seniors 65+
$22.50 | Student (with current ID) 

Free First Thursdays –Visit for free on the first Thursday of each month.