interview Printmaking by Gérard Fromanger

Gérard Fromanger, a distinguished French visual artist, left an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art with his innovative and multifaceted approach. He was born on September 6, 1939, and his artistic journey continued until his passing on June 18, 2021.

Fromanger's artistic repertoire was both diverse and impressive, encompassing painting, collage, sculpture, photography, cinema, and lithography. He played a significant role in the French artistic movement of the 1960s and 1970s, known as Figuration Narrative, which can be likened to the pop art movement. Notably, his work also bore associations with photorealism.

Gérard Fromanger's artistic education took root at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where he honed his craft and laid the foundation for his future creative endeavors. In 1966, he made his debut on the art scene with his first solo exhibition, marking the beginning of a prolific artistic career.

One of the most eye-catching aspects of Fromanger's work was his large, translucent "half-balloon" street sculptures titled "Souffles," which garnered considerable attention in 1968. This innovative approach to sculpture added a unique dimension to his artistic expression. Moreover, his collaboration with the renowned filmmaker Jean-Luc Godard led to the creation of the short film "Film-tract 1968," further solidifying his place in the artistic landscape.

Fromanger's art frequently explored themes related to urban life and the consumer society, providing thought-provoking commentary on contemporary society. The Nouvelle Figuration movement, also known as figuration narrative or représentation narrative, was instrumental in his career. This movement was often seen as a reaction against abstract art, with a distinctive political inclination, setting it apart from American pop art. Fromanger's work has been described as a powerful form of social critique, combining political perspectives with a profound sense of poetry.

One of the artist's notable connections was with the philosopher Michel Foucault, who was a close friend and admirer of Fromanger's work. Foucault even penned a commentary on Fromanger's art, titled "Photogenic Painting," underlining the intellectual and philosophical depth of Fromanger's creations.

In 2005, a comprehensive retrospective exhibition titled "Gérard Fromanger: rétrospective 1962–2005" provided a thorough examination of his artistic journey. This exhibition graced various galleries in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland, allowing art enthusiasts to delve into the rich tapestry of Fromanger's career and the evolution of his artistic expression.

Gérard Fromanger's life and work were not confined to one location; he lived and worked in both Siena and Paris, reflecting the international reach and influence of his art. His contributions to the world of art continue to be celebrated, and his legacy endures as a testament to his artistic innovation and socio-political engagement.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1939
• Artistic domains: Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Contemporary French Artists Artists presented by a gallery