Demarle Paintings

Jean Demarle was a French artist known for his contributions to the Nouvelle École de Paris (New School of Paris), which was a term applied to a diverse group of post-World War II artists who continued the tradition of abstract painting in Paris. Born on November 8, 1919, in Amiens, France, Demarle grew up in a period marked by great social and political upheaval. He began his artistic journey influenced by the events of his time, and his work reflected the evolving artistic movements that characterized the mid-20th century.

Demarle started as a figurative painter but gradually moved towards abstraction. His practice was informed by a deep interest in materials and the physical process of painting. He was a member of the Salon des Réalités Nouvelles, an association of artists focused on abstract work where he regularly exhibited his paintings. Demarle's art was often characterized by dynamic compositions, bold use of color, and a sense of movement, which related to broader trends in European abstract art, including Art Informel and Tachisme.

In 1953, Demarle, along with other artists, founded the Groupe Espace in Paris, which aimed to break down the barriers between art and life and to promote the integration of art into the urban environment. The group was interested in the synthesis of architecture, painting, and sculpture, and sought to create art that was accessible to the public in their everyday surroundings. Demarle's work with Groupe Espace demonstrated his commitment to the idea of art as a social and communal experience.

Throughout his career, Jean Demarle exhibited in Paris and internationally, and his work was included in several important exhibitions of abstract art. Despite not being as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the art movements of the time were significant. Demarle passed away on August 17, 1996. His legacy lives on in the collections of various museums and in the history of post-war European abstract art.