Hockney’s Alphabet: A Collector’s Dream in Letters and Lithographs

David Hockney is, without a doubt, one of Britain’s most influential contemporary artists. The A Bigger Splash Artist rode the wave of Pop Art, constantly pushing boundaries – a master of many artforms. Now, in 2025, his popularity remains unchallenged. Following the success of his recent show at Aviva Studios, and in anticipation of his upcoming show at Serpentine North, we – here at Smolensky – absolutely love Hockney, and have a range of his artworks available for purchase.

Notably, his Alphabet.

David Hockney, 'A' from 'Hockney's Alphabet', 1991

Lithograph on Exhibition Fine Art Cartridge paper

24 x 32 cm (9.44 x 12.6 in)

Edition of 250

£550

Hockney’s Alphabet (1991) is the product of a collaboration between Hockney and the poet Stephen Spender. A series of Lithograph prints depict and explore each individual letter. On their reverse, poetry or prose – curated by Spender – reflect on what each letter means to them.

The collection is made of 27 pieces – there are two different versions of Q.  The artworks are vivid interpretive illustrations. They are playful, diverse – at times naïve, at times formal. Each is very distinct, evoking an almost childlike exploration of the fundamental building blocks of written language.

David Hockney, 'Q' from 'Hockney's Alphabet', 1991

Lithograph on Exhibition Fine Art Cartridge paper

24 x 32 cm (9.44 x 12.6 in)

Edition of 250

£550

The accompanying text comes from a very prestigious list of authors, including Ian McEwan, Arthur Miller, Ted Highs, Kazuo Ishiguro and even T. S. Eliot. Valerie Eliot, a brilliant poet in her own right and widow of the late T. S, contributed a letter from her personal collection. It can be seen here, alongside the letter Q.

Reverse of David Hockney, 'F' from 'Hockney's Alphabet', 1991

Lithograph on Exhibition Fine Art Cartridge paper

24 x 32 cm (9.44 x 12.6 in)

Edition of 250

£550

Perhaps the most unique submission came from Norman Mailer, who sent a letter of refusal. This letter was included anyway. Hockney and Spender’s humorous curation can be seen throughout the collection.

These limited-edition lithographs have a typographic charm, and display Hockney’s wide ranging artistic ability. The final product is unmistakably Hockney, a rare fusion of visual and literary art.

At Smolensky we wanted to capture both the art and the text, so provide the option of having these works framed with a double-sided conservation frame. Both Text and Art accessible and reversible. Two pieces in one.

David Hockney, 'F' from 'Hockney's Alphabet', 1991, Framed

Lithograph on Exhibition Fine Art Cartridge paper

2.2cm Double-sided conservation frame

24 x 32 cm (9.44 x 12.6 in)

Edition of 250

£750

Hockney is a hot ticket, always was, still is. As his practice develops and his exhibitions continue, it is interesting to take a step back and look at his body of work as a whole. Hockney’s Alphabet falls beautifully within this, truly capturing his essence as an artist in highly digestible pieces. So, if you’re a fan of typography, of Hockney, of the intersection between literature and the visual arts, it might be worth taking a look at Hockney’s Alphabet!

We are pleased to offer the full alphabet – all 27 lithographs – signed and limited edition, professionally framed and preserved to conservation standards. Whether you are looking to start a collection, or simply find your favourite letter, have a look at what is in store.