Imaging Spaceland, The Hockney - Falco Thesis: An Arts-based Case Study of Interdisciplinary Inquiry

Abstract

The Hockney - Falco Thesis (THFT) refers to findings published by the artist, David Hockney, and his fellow collaborator, Dr. Charles M. Falco, University of Arizona Professor of Optical Sciences. THFT builds upon Hockney's theories first published in his book, Secret Knowledge: Rediscovering the Lost Techniques of the Old Masters (2001, 2006), by further demonstrating how some Renaissance artists including, van Eyck, Lotto, and Caravaggio, used optics as tools for creating works of art.This arts-based case study reveals that Hockney and Falco's discoveries were significantly informed by their respective practices of art and imaging, and demonstrates why Falco's experiences with Hockney, specifically, has and continues to influence his scientific research practice. These findings support Sullivan's (2004, 2005, 2006) theory of art-practice as research and demonstrate that THFT has significant implications for research and instruction of art and visual culture education.