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Jean Tinguely

Jean Tinguely (1925-1991) was a Swiss artist, best known for his kinetic sculptures and sculptural machines. He was a major figure in the artistic movement known as New Realism, which emerged in the 1960s.

Born in Fribourg, Switzerland, Tinguely first studied arts and crafts before turning to sculpture. His first major exhibition took place in Paris in 1954, and he was later associated with the Nouveaux Réalistes group, founded by the art critic Pierre Restany.

Tinguely's works were often created using recycled materials and mechanical parts. His kinetic sculptures were often complex assemblies of metal, motors, and cogs that moved or made sounds when activated.

One of his most famous works is “Homage to New York” (1960), a self-destructive machine that he designed in collaboration with artist Robert Rauschenberg. The work was self-destroyed during a performance at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

Jean Tinguely continued to produce work throughout his career, exploring themes of automation, movement, and the ephemeral. His work has had a significant influence on kinetic art and contemporary art in general.

New Realism Movement

Tinguely was one of the founders of Nouveau Réalism, an artistic movement in the 1960s that opposed lyrical abstraction in favor of a more “realistic” approach to contemporary art. The movement included artists such as Yves Klein and Arman.

Kinetic machines

Tinguely was famous for his creations of kinetic machines, sculptures in motion that were often composed of reclaimed materials. These works are emblematic of his playful and experimental approach to art.

Homage to the ephemeral

The use of ephemeral materials in his machines, which were often intended to destroy themselves during operation, reflects Tinguely's philosophy on the ephemeral and the passage of time.

Collaborations with other artists

Tinguely collaborated with other notable artists, including his wife Niki de Saint Phalle, creating major works such as the Stravinsky Fountain in Paris. These collaborations have enriched his artistic heritage.

Artistic performance

The performances linked to his kinetic machines added a theatrical dimension to his work. Public performances of his works were often highly publicized events.

Influence of the Dada movement

Tinguely was influenced by the early 20th century Dada art movement, which advocated anti-art, the absurd, and provocative. Its connection with this artistic tradition has reinforced its attractiveness.

International exhibitions

Tinguely has participated in numerous major exhibitions around the world, including Documenta in Kassel in Germany and the Venice Biennale in Italy. Her presence in these events contributed to her worldwide fame.

Innovative artistic technique

His innovative use of technology and engineering in creating works of art has fascinated art lovers and collectors.

Collection in major institutions

Tinguely's works are present in collections of renowned museums around the world, strengthening his status in the world of contemporary art.

Artistic heritage and influence

Tinguely's artistic heritage continues to influence contemporary artists, and this contributes to maintaining interest in his work in the art market.

Come and discover a selection of works by Jean Tinguely at Galerie AB.

Alt Text: "Dessin intitulé 'Bonne année 80' réalisé par Jean Tinguely le 1er janvier 1980. L'œuvre est un collage, encre et crayon de couleur, mesurant 21 x 29,5 cm. Elle est signée en bas à droite. Cette pièce est exposée à la Galerie AB à Paris, spécialisée dans la vente d'œuvres d'art, le conseil en investissement et l'expertise."
Jean Tinguely
Happy New Year 80
January 1, 1980
Collage, ink and colored pencil
21 x 29.5 cm
Signed lower right
Alt Text: "Dessin intitulé 'Bonne année 80' réalisé par Jean Tinguely le 1er janvier 1980. L'œuvre est un collage, encre et crayon de couleur, mesurant 21 x 29,5 cm. Elle est signée en bas à droite. Cette pièce est exposée à la Galerie AB à Paris, spécialisée dans la vente d'œuvres d'art, le conseil en investissement et l'expertise."
Jean Tinguely
Happy New Year 80
(Situation)

Explore our online collection to discover the works of Jean Tinguely available for purchase. Or contact us so that we can keep you informed of the works available in our gallery.

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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 Jean Tinguely.

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Pompidou Center - Paris, France

Museum of Modern Art of the city of Paris - Paris, France

Tinguely Museum - Basel, Switzerland

Pompidou Center - National Museum of Modern Art - Paris, France

Kunsthaus Zürich - Zurich, Switzerland

Museum Tinguely & Niki de Saint Phalle - Hannover, Germany

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) - New York, United States

Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Tate Modern - London, United Kingdom

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - Strasbourg, France

Museum Frieder Burda - Basel, Switzerland

Museum Kunstpalast - Dusseldorf, Germany

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