Frank Will, born François Louis Schmitt, was a French painter known for his vibrant cityscapes and scenes of urban life. Born on July 13, 1900, in Metz, which was then part of Germany, he later moved to France where he developed his artistic career.
Will was part of the post-impressionist movement, which sought to build upon the impressionist emphasis on light and color but with more attention to structure and form. His work often depicted the streets of Paris with a lively interplay of light and shadow, capturing the bustling atmosphere of the city. He was particularly adept at portraying rainy scenes, where the reflections and the wet surfaces added a layer of complexity to his compositions.
Throughout his career, Frank Will exhibited his work in various salons and galleries, and he was well-regarded by critics and collectors alike. His paintings are characterized by their loose brushwork and bright, pure colors. Will also had a talent for drawing and produced a number of sketches and watercolors in addition to his oil paintings.
Tragically, Frank Will's life was cut short when he died at the age of 50, on February 10, 1951, in Paris. Despite his relatively brief career, he left behind a substantial body of work that continues to be appreciated for its energetic portrayal of early 20th-century urban life in France. Today, his paintings can be found in various art collections and continue to be sought after by art enthusiasts.
