Bernard Buffet, a distinctive figure in the world of art, was a modern master who was praised for his unique approach to Expressionism. Born in Paris on this day July 10, 1928, Buffet’s artistic journey began at a very young age. His passion for painting and drawing was evident early on and led him to the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts at the age of 15. His talent was undeniable, and soon he garnered widespread acclaim for his unique style that blurred the lines between traditional and contemporary art forms.
Buffet’s work was characterized by stark, almost skeletal depictions of people and objects, executed in bold lines and a restricted color palette. Despite the seemingly bleak outlook of his paintings, they conveyed a profound depth of human emotion, thus firmly placing him in the realm of Expressionism. His subjects varied from landscapes, still life, portraits to scenes of desolation and despair. Each painting or drawing by Bernard Buffet was a testament to his ability to evoke emotion through simplicity.
The art world received Buffet’s work with mixed reactions; while some lauded his innovative style and expressionistic approach, others found his grim themes challenging. Regardless of these opinions, there is no denying that Bernard Buffet carved out a niche for himself in the artistic realm with his individualistic style. His influence extended beyond France, reaching global proportions, with his works being exhibited in leading museums worldwide.
Despite facing personal struggles and professional criticism throughout his life, Buffet remained dedicated to his craft until the very end. He continued painting even during his battle with Parkinson’s disease that eventually led to his death by suicide in 1999. Today, Bernard Buffet is remembered not just as an artist but as a modern master who used his brush to paint not just pictures but emotions and experiences, making him an integral part of the global art history narrative.
Curated by Jennifer
