In this, the first volume of Hockney’s biography, detailing his life and work from 1937 - 1975, Sykes explores the fascinating world of the beloved and controversial artist whose career has spanned and epitomized the art movements of the last five decades. Drawing on exclusive and unprecedented access to David Hockney’s extensive archives, notebooks, and paintings, interviews with family, friends, and on Hockney himself, the author provides a colourful and intimate portrait of one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. "Fluid, entertaining...Meticulously researched, Sykes's account is a pleasure to read."—The New Yorker "Intimate, vivid ... A personal, lively look at this extraordinary artist’s career.."—Kirkus Reviews