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Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet

1901 - 1985

Quick Facts

  • Born: 1901, Le Havre, France
  • Movements: art brut
  • Nationality: France
  • Lifespan: 84 years
  • Topics explored:
    • art brut style
    • abstract
    • texture
    • dubuffet style
    • monochrome
  • Creative periods: mature period
  • Corpus themes:
    • art brut
    • expressionism
    • art brut expression
    • art brut influence
    • rejection of academic art
  • Copyright status: Under copyright

early life and career

jean philippe arthur dubuffet, a french painter and sculptor, was born on july 31, 1901, in le havre, france. his family, wholesale wine merchants, belonged to the wealthy bourgeoisie. in 1918, dubuffet moved to paris to study painting at the académie julian, where he befriended artists like juan gris, andré masson, and fernand léger.

artistic evolution

after a brief stint at the académie, dubuffet continued his artistic journey independently. he developed interests in music, poetry, and ancient languages. in 1934, he resumed painting, creating a series of portraits that emphasized art historical vogues. however, he stopped again to focus on his wine business during the german occupation of france.

founding art brut

in 1942, dubuffet devoted himself to art once more. he drew inspiration from everyday life, often featuring individuals in cramped spaces, which had a distinct psychological impact on viewers. his first solo show at the galerie rené drouin in paris (1944) marked his third attempt to become an established artist.

notable works and techniques

* jean fautrier's paintings (1945) influenced dubuffet to use thick oil paint mixed with materials like mud, sand, and coal dust. * his series hautes pâtes (thick impastoes), exhibited in 1946 at the galerie rené drouin, showcased his innovative impasto technique.

international recognition

dubuffet's association with pierre matisse, a prominent dealer of contemporary european art in america, led to rapid success in the american art market. his work was featured alongside artists like picasso, braque, and rouault at the gallery exhibit.

legacy

* dubuffet's pioneering role in the art brut movement has left an indelible mark on the art world. * his use of unconventional materials and techniques continues to inspire artists worldwide. key dates: * july 31, 1901: born in le havre, france * may 12, 1985: passed away notable art movement: * art brut, founded by jean philippe arthur dubuffet

Questions & Answers

How did Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet's art evolve over time?

A chronological account of Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet's work is available on the artist's Chronicle page, where the artworks pass in order of creation, chapter by chapter.

How many artworks by Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet are available to browse?

You can browse 426 artworks by Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet on the All Artworks page.

What other names is Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet known by?

Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet appears under the alternate names Jean Philippe Arthur Dubuffet.

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
What was Jean Dubuffet's father’s profession?
Question 2:
Where did Jean Dubuffet study painting initially?
Question 3:
What inspired Jean Dubuffet to explore art brut?
Question 4:
Which artist influenced Dubuffet's use of thick impasto technique?
Question 5:
What is the main characteristic of Art Brut according to Jean Dubuffet?