Estève, Maurice

Maurice Estève (1904-2001) was a French painter recognized for his role in the development of abstraction in France. Born in Culan, Cher, he moved to Paris with his family in 1913. Although he received no formal artistic training, Estève attended the Ecole de Dessin de la Ville de Paris and became self-taught, developing his own style over the years.
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Biography of Maurice Estève

In the 1920s, he was influenced by Cubism, particularly the work of Georges Braque and Fernand Léger. However, Estève soon moved towards the colorful abstraction that would become his signature. His work is marked by bold use of color and geometric, organic compositions that seem almost tactile. He explores a painting based on sensations, where color, often vivid, and form take precedence over figurative representation.

In the 1950s, Maurice Estève established himself as an important figure in lyrical abstraction. He exhibited regularly in France and abroad, and his work won critical acclaim. In 1970, a retrospective of his work was held at the Musée National d'Art Moderne in Paris, demonstrating his recognition in the art world.

In addition to painting, Estève also worked in the field of tapestry and drawing. Today, his work is held in numerous public and private collections around the world. Maurice Estève died in Culan in 2001, leaving behind a vibrant, poetic body of work that continues to influence future generations of artists.