Paul Rebeyrolle, a French artist, dedicated the majority of his career to highlighting philosophical and political issues through expressive and emotionally charged works. He was born in Eymoutiers, France in November 1926, and passed away in February 2005 in Boudreville, Côte-d’Or. Struggling with tuberculosis of the bones since the age of five, Rebeyrolle was left immobilized. During this time, he found solace in drawing, while his parents and teachers taught him how to read and write. It wasn’t until the mid-1930s that he regained the ability to walk after a long period of convalescence. In 1937, his family relocated to Limoges, where Rebeyrolle began his secondary education, with a focus on a baccalaureate in Philosophy.
At the age of 18, Rebeyrolle made his way to Paris, eagerly boarding “the first train of the Liberation,” having long known his desire to become a painter. Throughout the 1940s, he immersed himself in the world of painting through various exhibitions, such as witnessing the works of Soutine at the Galerie de France and Picasso at the Salon d’Automne. However, the reopening of the Louvre proved to be the most pivotal experience for him. Exploring the museum’s rooms, he discovered the masterpieces of Rubens, Rembrandt, and Titian. Intrigued by this encounter, Rebeyrolle embarked on a journey to Spain and Italy in 1950 to further indulge in the exploration of outstanding artworks. Additionally, he actively participated in group exhibitions and achieved recognition as a Young Painter during this time.
Upon returning to Paris, Rebeyrolle’s artistic career took off as he began holding solo shows. It was during this period that his involvement with the Communist Party emerged, motivated by the uncertainties of the Cold War and propelled by propaganda. However, after the events in Hungary in 1956, he decided to disassociate himself from the party, symbolizing this departure through his painting titled “Hope to see you soon.”
In the ensuing years, Rebeyrolle’s artistic endeavors gravitated towards abstract painting and socialist realism. His canvases featured figurative representations, often brimming with violence, and populated by nude figures. Simultaneously, he also delved into the abstractions of natural motifs, influenced by his passion for fly-fishing.
In 1963, after experiencing some success, Rebeyrolle chose to leave Paris and settle in the countryside, where he continued to live and work. Despite his move, he continued to exhibit in Paris, most notably at the Maeght Gallery.
www.ftn-books.com has several Rebeyrolle publications available
