Celia with Green Hat is a luminous and expressive portrait that brings Hockney’s unique way of seeing to life. At its heart is Celia Birtwell — a dear friend and muse — captured not as a static figure, but as someone very much alive in the moment. The green hat that sits atop her head is more than an accessory; it becomes a vibrant visual anchor that infuses the whole composition with personality and mood.

Hockney’s use of colour and form here feels free and intuitive. Rather than creating a polished, photographic likeness, he embraces expressive brushwork and shapes that pulse with energy. The green of the hat plays off warm tones in her face and clothing, creating a harmony that feels both bold and tender. Her gaze is direct but relaxed, inviting a quiet sense of connection.

There’s a delicate tension in how the figure sits within the space: familiar, yet slightly abstracted, as if seen through the gentle blur of memory or feeling. The lines and hues seem to breathe together, giving the portrait a sense of rhythm and presence. It’s a celebration of character and colour, where mood and personality take precedence over mere representation.

Celia with Green Hat feels like a conversation — one that blends intimacy with artistic invention. It’s a portrait that doesn’t just show us a face, but offers a glimpse into a relationship and the lively spirit behind it.