François Avril, a renowned artist known for his geometric shapes and clean lines, is set to have his first exhibition in New York. The exhibition, which will be held at the Philippe Labaune gallery, will run from Thursday, April 20 to Saturday, May 27.
Although this is Avril’s first exhibition in New York, the city holds a special place in his heart. Avril, who was born in Paris, finds something reassuring and inspiring about the city. He first visited New York in 1990, shortly after the death of a friend, and the city’s vibrant energy helped him find the desire to live again.
As a tribute to his source of inspiration, ten of Avril’s works at the exhibition will be dedicated to New York. However, Avril’s artistic style is not about exact reproductions. Instead, he reinvents the landscapes, whether they are urban or otherwise. He rarely draws on-site, preferring to work from memory in the comfort of his Brussels studio or his Breton house.
In addition to cities like New York, Paris, Brussels, and Tokyo, Avril has also found inspiration in nature over the past fifteen years. An exhibition in Brittany introduced him to the beauty of nature, and he has since become a Breton by adoption. Avril now draws the coasts of Brittany as much as he does cities.
One of the unique aspects of Avril’s career is his association with the comic book thumbnail style, despite working on large format canvases. Although he did not draw much for comics, Avril started in illustration and continues to embrace the heritage of the clear line style made famous by Hergé. He believes that the drawing and the black line are the most important elements of his work, and he considers himself a draftsman at heart. Avril is part of the generation that brought comics and illustration into art galleries, although they initially faced some teasing for considering themselves artists.
While Avril has drawn and loved New York, the city has not given him much in return. He did some work for the New Yorker but has moved on from the dream of being a cartoonist. By exhibiting at the Philippe Labaune gallery, Avril is taking a different path from one of his inspirations, Edward Hopper, who started his career in Paris before becoming a renowned American realist painter. Avril admires Hopper not only for his realistic style but also because he came from a background in drawing and advertising, making his own way in the art world.
The exhibition at the Philippe Labaune gallery is a tribute to Avril’s unique artistic vision and a testament to his success in the art world. It showcases his reinvented landscapes, his legacy from comics and illustration, and his personal journey as an artist.
How does François Avril’s focus on clean lines and balanced shapes contribute to the sense of harmony and order in his artwork?
Famous landmarks or everyday scenes, through his unique geometric interpretation. His artistic approach is characterized by a focus on clean lines and balanced shapes, creating a sense of harmony and order within his artwork.
Avril’s exhibition at the Philippe Labaune gallery is highly anticipated by art enthusiasts and collectors alike. The gallery is known for showcasing innovative and visionary artists, and Avril’s distinctive style fits perfectly with their mission. The exhibition will provide a comprehensive overview of Avril’s artistic career, featuring a range of his works from different periods.
For Avril, this exhibition represents a culmination of his artistic journey. His passion for geometrical shapes and clean lines has been a constant thread throughout his career, and this collection showcases the evolution of his style over time. From his earliest works to his most recent pieces, viewers will be able to witness the progression and growth of Avril’s artistic vision.
The decision to dedicate ten works specifically to New York is a testament to the significant impact the city has had on Avril’s artistic development. Each piece is a unique interpretation of the city’s charm, capturing its energy, vibrancy, and architectural beauty. Avril’s reimagined landscapes invite viewers to see New York from a fresh perspective, transcending traditional representations and inviting them to appreciate the city in a new light.
Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Avril’s distinctive artistic universe. The clean lines and precise geometry of his works create a calming and contemplative atmosphere, inviting viewers to engage with the art on a deeper level. Avril’s attention to detail and composition showcases his mastery of his craft, allowing viewers to appreciate the meticulousness and thoughtfulness behind each piece.
François Avril’s first exhibition in New York is an exciting milestone in his career. With his unique artistic style and dedication to reinventing landscapes through clean lines and geometric shapes, Avril’s work captivates and inspires viewers. The exhibition at the Philippe Labaune gallery is a chance for art enthusiasts and collectors to discover Avril’s artistic journey and immerse themselves in his distinctive vision.
“François Avril’s exhibition in New York successfully combines vibrant landscapes with comic-inspired art, creating an immersive experience that captures the essence of his unique style. A must-visit for art enthusiasts looking to delve into the crossroads of traditional and contemporary artistic expression.”
“François Avril’s exhibition in New York brilliantly captures the essence of reinvented landscapes through the captivating lens of comics. A must-see showcase that merges vibrant artistry, deep storytelling, and an undeniable legacy.”