Unkinking the Kinks

Jules de Balincourt: A Biography

Early Life and Education

Born in Paris, France in 1972, Jules de Balincourt is a French-American contemporary artist currently based in Brooklyn, New York. His childhood was marked by movement, primarily growing up near Malibou Lake in the Santa Monica Mountains. This early exposure to the Californian landscape would later subtly influence his atmospheric and often abstracted depictions of nature. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Ceramics from the California College of the Arts (CCA) in 1998 before continuing his studies at Hunter College in New York City, earning an MFA in 2005.

Artistic Development and Style

De Balincourt’s artistic journey began with ceramics but quickly transitioned to painting. His work is characterized by abstract compositions, saturated colors, and a distinctive atmospheric quality that blurs the boundaries between reality and imagination. He doesn't typically rely on photographs or detailed drawings as source material; instead, he employs techniques reminiscent of Outsider Art, utilizing stencils, tape, knives, and spray paint to create layered and textured surfaces.

• Abstract Landscapes: His paintings often evoke landscapes, though they are rarely literal representations. They capture a feeling or mood rather than precise topographical details.
• Color Palette: De Balincourt is known for his bold and vibrant use of color, creating visually striking and emotionally resonant works.
• Technique: The layering of paint and the incorporation of unconventional tools contribute to a unique textural quality in his paintings.

Starr Space and Community Engagement

In 2006, de Balincourt founded Starr Space (formerly Starr Street Projects) in Brooklyn. This alternative art space served as a vital hub for the local community for three years, hosting diverse programming including art exhibitions, performances by artists like Ryan Trecartin and Terence Koh, yoga classes, farmers markets, rock shows, and fundraising events. Starr Space fostered a dynamic environment that reflected de Balincourt’s commitment to artistic collaboration and community engagement.

Major Achievements and Exhibitions

De Balincourt's work has garnered significant recognition within the art world. He has exhibited extensively both nationally and internationally, including at prestigious institutions such as:

• Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
• Palais de Tokyo (Paris)
• Mori Museum (Tokyo) – Solo Exhibition
• P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center and MoMA (New York) - “Greater New York”
• Royal Academy (London) - “USA Today”

Influences and Historical Significance

While de Balincourt’s style is distinctly his own, it draws inspiration from a range of sources including Outsider Art, abstract expressionism, and the atmospheric qualities found in landscape painting traditions. His work reflects a contemporary sensibility that engages with themes of memory, perception, and the relationship between nature and human experience.

De Balincourt’s contribution lies in his ability to create evocative and visually compelling paintings that resonate with viewers on an emotional level. He has been described as the “mayor of Bushwick” by Carol Lee for his active role within the Brooklyn art scene, highlighting his influence beyond just his artistic output. His work is held in prominent collections including the Oppenheimer – JCCC Collection, Saatchi Gallery, Brooklyn Museum and LACMA.