Bernard Buffet: A Leading Figure in Expressionism
Bernard Buffet was born in Paris on July 10, 1928. As an expressionist painter of rare intensity, he established himself as a leading figure of the anti-abstract group L’Homme-Témoin, forcefully championing a figurative aesthetic that stood in stark contrast to prevailing trends. Trained at the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts under the guidance of Eugène Narbonne, he crossed paths with Maurice Boitel and Marie-Thérèse Auffray, whose influence marked a decisive turning point in his art. Remarkably precocious, he exhibited in a Parisian gallery at just seventeen, immediately sparking enthusiasm from both the public and critics. This meteoric rise quickly secured his place among the major figures of the international art scene.
The Visionary Art of Bernard Buffet: From Paris to Saint-Tropez
Buffet’s connection to Saint-Tropez runs deep, with the town serving as both an artistic inspiration and a personal haven. In 1978, he began capturing the vibrant life of this Mediterranean gem, starting with a series of watercolors displayed at the Maurice Garnier gallery. Influenced by the beauty of Saint-Tropez’s old quarter, La Ponche, and the warmth of his muse Annabel Schwob, Buffet immortalized the essence of the town through his expressive brushstrokes. From the bustling harbor to the quiet charm of the narrow streets, his works reflect the joyful atmosphere and the captivating light of the region.
The Enduring Legacy of Bernard Buffet
Despite facing criticism as abstract art took center stage, Buffet’s commitment to his figurative style never wavered. His work achieved tremendous success in Japan, and his legacy is safeguarded by Galerie Maurice Garnier. Although his life was cut short by Parkinson’s disease, Buffet’s art continues to captivate and inspire through retrospectives and exhibitions worldwide, reminding us of the timeless power and singularity of his vision.
