Albert André was a French Post-Impressionist painter, engraver, and writer, who was born on May 24, 1869, in Lyon, France. His work is often characterized by a gentle, domestic impressionism, showing a keen interest in capturing the tranquility of everyday life. During his early years, André studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Lyon and later moved to Paris, where he became a student of Jean-Paul Laurens at the Académie Julian.
André's style was influenced by his association with the art dealer Ambroise Vollard, who gave him his first solo exhibition in 1894. Through Vollard, he became acquainted with Renoir, who would become a lifelong friend and mentor. André's paintings often reflected the influence of Renoir, both in their brushwork and in their focus on intimate domestic and leisure scenes.
Throughout his career, André exhibited his works at various salons and exhibitions. He was a regular participant in the Salon des Indépendants and the Salon d'Automne in Paris. Furthermore, he was involved with the group of artists known as the Nabis, which included Pierre Bonnard and Édouard Vuillard, though he never became a formal member of the group.
During World War I, André served in the military, and his experiences during the war had a profound impact on him. After the war, he returned to painting and also took up positions as a curator. From 1917 until his retirement in 1954, he was the curator of the Musée de Bagnols-sur-Cèze, which now houses a collection of his works.
Albert André remained dedicated to his art until his death on July 11, 1954, in Laudun, France. His legacy includes not only his paintings but also his contributions to the art community as a writer and curator. André's works are held in numerous public collections, including the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris, showcasing his enduring influence on French post-impressionist painting.
