John Decker

John Decker

Born in Germany in 1895, John Decker was far more than just a portraitist of Hollywood celebrities; he was a ringleader of bohemia, a bon vivant whose life was as colourful and chaotic as his canvases. Arriving in Los Angeles in the 1920s, Decker quickly became the toast of the town, not for his technical skill alone, but for his wit, charm, and talent for capturing the inner lives of his famous subjects. He painted portraits of Charlie Chaplin, Errol Flynn, and Marion Davies, becoming as much a confidant as an artist to the stars. Decker's studio was a haven for artists, writers, and actors, a place where the champagne flowed freely, and artistic license was not just encouraged but expected. He was a key figure in the Los Angeles art scene, bridging the gap between the European avant-garde and the burgeoning American film industry. His style, while rooted in traditional portraiture, was infused with a modern sensibility, a keen eye for character, and a touch of the theatrical. Decker's portraits are not mere likenesses; they are psychological studies, capturing the essence of his subjects with remarkable insight. Despite his success, Decker's life was marked by personal struggles. Yet, his legacy lives on through his captivating portraits and the stories of his vibrant, unconventional life. His work offers a glimpse into the golden age of Hollywood, seen through the eyes of an artist who was both a part of and apart from its glittering facade. He died in 1947, leaving behind a body of work that continues to fascinate and intrigue.