Biography

François Desnoyer, a Painter of Light and the Mediterranean

François Desnoyer was a French painter born in Montauban in 1894. He passed away in Saint-Cyprien in 1972. He is considered one of the most important painters of the second half of the 20th century.
His work is marked by light and vivid colors. He is particularly known for his Mediterranean landscapes, portraits, and still lifes.

A Life Devoted to Art

François Desnoyer began painting in childhood. He was encouraged by the sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, who welcomed him into his studio.
In 1913, Desnoyer moved to Paris to pursue his studies. He attended the School of Decorative Arts and took courses with Antoine Bourdelle.
During the First World War, Desnoyer was drafted. He was wounded three times and taken prisoner. During his captivity, he continued to draw.
After the war, Desnoyer resumed his studies and began exhibiting. He quickly received awards and recognition, which brought him to the attention of the public.

A Painter of the Mediterranean

In 1945, Desnoyer discovered the Mediterranean. He was immediately captivated by the light and colors of the region.
Mediterranean landscapes became a major source of inspiration for Desnoyer. He painted them with great sensitivity, capturing the beauty and softness of these places.

A Talented Portraitist

Desnoyer was also a talented portraitist. He painted portraits of his relatives, friends, and well-known figures.
His portraits are realistic, but also full of sensitivity and depth. They reveal the personalities of his subjects.

A Still Life Painter

Desnoyer also enjoyed painting still lifes. He composed them with care, paying close attention to detail.
His still lifes are full of life and color. They invite us to contemplation.

The François Desnoyer Foundation

In 1975, the François Desnoyer Foundation was created in Saint-Cyprien: The Saint-Cyprien Collections. Its mission is to preserve and promote the artist’s work.
The François Desnoyer Collection is built around the 1972 bequest, including over 700 works by the artist, along with a library rich in artist books, painter monographs, and more.
The Foundation regularly organizes exhibitions, lectures, and educational workshops. It also offers guided tours of Desnoyer’s studio.

A Key Figure in Art

François Desnoyer is a major figure in 20th-century French painting. His work is rich and diverse, and it continues to inspire artists today.

Words from the Artist:

“The composition of a painting begins once there’s been a shock from nature. That’s the starting point of the work. I circle around it. After several colored sketches, I arrive at the final composition. I am a realist — only reality gives me the shock; then I compose, based on my studies from nature, in my studio.”
— Excerpt from a conference by François Desnoyer, March 13, 1964, International Figurative Art Exhibition in Tokyo.