Is David Hockney Okay?

David Hockney is a British national treasure. As an out-gay artist, he’s been making work since the 1950s centering queer love and lush, brightly-colored interiors. And dachshunds. 

So imagine the British public’s surprise when Hockney—who was recently commissioned to do original public artworks for the British Rail—unveiled a less-than-inspiring piece on Tuesday as part of London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s #LetsDoLondon campaign. 

Brilliant work from David Hockney in Piccadilly—the first of a series of major art projects we’ve commissioned as part of our brand new #LetsDoLondon campaign. Lots more to come very soon! #DavidHockney pic.twitter.com/djW8BGSNuu

— Mayor of London (@MayorofLondon) May 11, 2021

It’s a lot more Cy Twombly than David Hockney, and the work left viewers feeling uninspired. Some even speculated that the legendary artist simply slept on his deadline.

London: “David, you said you’d have something to us by today?”

*crashing noise*

London: “David? Are you there?”

*panicked scribbling sounds*

David Hockney: “Yes, yes. Just sending it…”

— Luke Benson (@Mr_LukeBenson) May 11, 2021

david hockney, as he realises the art submission deadline he forgot about is in one minute: pic.twitter.com/PTizW8hFJ1

— reni 🦌 (@reniadeb) May 11, 2021

While others felt that they—and their small children— could have done a better job.

I’m sorry but it looks like a child’s drawn it! 🤦‍♀️ The little I know of David Hockney’s work, I would have expected far more from him. XxX

— Claire Hayward💙🌈💋🖖 (@Claribelle13) May 11, 2021

Others pointed out that some less famous artists could have really used this commission.

I love David Hockney, but can’t help but feel as though they’re are plenty of artists in London that could’ve really needed this job.

— Ben VP (@bencroftgaming) May 12, 2021

The unfairness of it all!

Proves that once an artist has made their name, they can turn out any old shite for a small fortune…. https://t.co/UEhKDGg2PA

— Helen (@Hells4Heroes) May 11, 2021

David, that u??

Did @MayorofLondon contact the wrong David Hockney? I feel like there’s a primary school kid feeling really pleased with himself right now https://t.co/Xo6SMKsdOZ

— Coral (@coralstratfordx) May 12, 2021

Here’s hoping more public art gets the Hockney treatment:

Next week, Hockney does the Trafalgar Square lions… pic.twitter.com/3SHH0oHAaN

— Owen Williams 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 (@OwsWills) May 12, 2021