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Chuck Close, born July 5, 1940, and died August 19, 2021, was an American painter and photographer renowned for his large-scale, photorealistic portraits. His innovative use of grids became a defining feature of his work.

Close began incorporating grids in the late 1960s to translate photographs into paintings. He would meticulously map out the image on a grid, enlarging small sections and painting them one at a time. This method allowed him to achieve extraordinary detail and realism. Each square of the grid became a miniature abstract painting, which collectively formed a cohesive, highly detailed image when viewed from a distance.

Close's technique evolved over time, especially after a spinal artery collapse in 1988 left him partially paralyzed. Despite this, he continued to work, adapting his grid method to accommodate his physical limitations. His later works featured more vibrant colors and abstract elements within each grid square, yet still maintained the overall likeness of the subject.

Throughout his career, the grid was not just a practical tool for Close but also a conceptual framework. It symbolized the intersection of art and technology, and the deconstruction and reconstruction of visual reality.

If you love Chuck Close's art, you might also enjoy the history of pixel art!

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