Pierre Soulages (1919-2022) is a French painter, known for being one of the major representatives of abstract art, in particular of the movement called “lyrical abstraction” or “informal abstraction”. It is also associated with the informal art movement.
Born in Rodez, France, Soulages started painting at a very young age and studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His work evolved through various phases, but he is best known for his abstract paintings characterized by the daring use of black.
The use of black in his works became his artistic signature. Soulages uses light and texture to create works in which black plays a central role. He developed a particular technique using various tools, such as spatulas and brushes, to create textured surfaces and light effects.
Pierre Soulages' works have been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. He has received numerous awards and is considered to be one of the most influential contemporary artists on the French art scene. In 2014, the Soulages Museum opened its doors in Rodez, dedicated to the artist's work.
Artistic innovation
Pierre Soulages is recognized for his innovative approach to abstract painting, especially his technique of using the color black in an expressive way. His work has contributed to the expansion of the boundaries of abstraction.
Outrenoir
Soulages developed the concept of “outrenoir” (beyond black), exploring the endless shades of black by playing with light and texture. This research became emblematic of his style and aroused great interest in the art world.
Artistic longevity
Soulages maintained an active artistic career over several decades, which made it possible to observe the evolution and maturity of his work. The consistency of his artistic quality over such an extended period reinforces his rating.
International recognition
His work has received international recognition, exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. This visibility contributed to his reputation and to the demand for his works.
Prestige of institutions
Soulages' works are present in prestigious institutions such as the Pompidou Center in Paris, the MoMA in New York, and the Tate Modern in London. The association with these institutions reinforces the value of his work.
Major exhibitions
Major exhibitions devoted to Soulages' work, whether retrospectives or individual presentations, have aroused the enthusiasm of the public and collectors.
Contribution to the history of art
Pierre Soulages is considered to be one of the major abstract artists of the second half of the 20th century. His contribution to the history of art, especially in the context of abstraction, gives him a special place in artistic recognition.
Impact on other artists
Soulages' influence is felt on many contemporary artists. His exploration of the color black and his commitment to abstraction have marked generations of artists.
Artistic versatility
Although often associated with painting, Soulages has also worked on sculptures, prints, and other forms of artistic expression. Its versatility has broadened its appeal.
French cultural heritage
As a renowned French artist, Soulages is also an important representative of French artistic culture. Its impact on the national artistic scene contributes to its reputation.
Come and discover a selection of works by Pierre Soulages at Galerie AB.
Explore our online collection to discover the works of Pierre Soulages available for purchase. Or contact us so that we can keep you informed of the works available in our gallery.
AB Fine Art: your partner in expertise and sale of works of art
The expertise firm AB Fine Art, managed by Agnès Aittouares, historian of the Ecole du Louvre and FNEPSA expert (National Federation of Specialized Art Experts) offers you more than 30 years of experience. An advisor and collector, Agnès Aittouares benefits from a thorough knowledge of the art market, artist ratings and current trends. Specializing in art investment advice, Agnès Aittouares will assist you in the selection, both in terms of quality and price, of the acquisition of a work by Pierre Soulages.
AB Fine art offers you a free estimate of your works by Pierre Soulages.
To sell a work by Pierre Soulages, send a photo of the front and back of your work by Mail.
An answer will be given to you as soon as possible.
Pompidou Center - Paris, France
Museum of Modern Art of the City of Paris - Paris, France
Fabre Museum - Montpellier, France
Pompidou Center - Paris, France
Soulages Museum - Rodez, France
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon - Lyon, France
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - Nice, France
Gianadda Foundation - Martigny, Switzerland
Georges Pompidou Center for Art and Culture - Cajarc, France
Kunstmuseum Basel - Basel, Switzerland
Maeght Foundation - Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - Nice, France
The Metropolitan Museum of Art - New York, United States