Maurice André (1914-1985) was a distinguished French visual artist known for his significant contributions to the world of tapestry art. As a founding member of the renowned group "Tapisserie de France" and a member of the A.P.C.T. (Association des Peintres-Cartonniers de Tapisserie), André played a pivotal role in shaping the tapestry art scene of his time.
André's artistic style was distinctly personal, diverging from the dominant aesthetic championed by artists like Lurçat. Influenced by cubism, his work was characterized by the use of rigorous, flat areas of color, often employing a limited palette to achieve striking visual effects. His innovative approach caught the attention of both critics and patrons, leading to numerous prestigious commissions, including notable works for the Council of Europe in Strasbourg ("L'Europe unie dans le Travail et la Paix") and the French pavilion at the Brussels Exhibition in 1958 ("La Technique moderne au service de l'Homme").
Over time, André's artistic style underwent a gradual evolution, moving towards greater abstraction, much like his contemporaries Wogensky and Prassinos. His later works embraced a more lyrical and geometric aesthetic, reminiscent of the renowned artist Matégot.
Characteristic of André's final period was his adept incorporation of geometric shapes, flat areas of color, and subtle details such as hatching, stripes, and shading. These elements converged to create compositions that were both visually captivating and intellectually engaging, reflecting André's mastery of his craft and his unwavering commitment to artistic innovation.
Throughout his illustrious career, Maurice André left an indelible mark on the world of tapestry art, earning recognition and admiration for his pioneering spirit and his transformative contributions to the field. Today, his legacy lives on, inspiring generations of artists and continuing to captivate audiences with its timeless beauty and profound artistic vision.