Biography

François Arnal was a notable French painter and sculptor, born on October 2, 1924, and passing away on October 28, 2012. He grew up in rural France and initially pursued studies in law at the University of Aix-en-Provence. During World War II, Arnal joined the French Resistance, where he was introduced to painting by the Dutch refugee Conrad Kickert. After the war, he moved to Paris and became involved in the lyrical abstraction movement, connecting with artists such as Pierre Dmitrienko and Bernard Quentin. In 1960, Arnal expanded his artistic practice to include sculpture and spent significant time in the United States, where he exhibited his work. By the mid-1960s, he had returned to Paris and began experimenting with innovative techniques such as "bombardments," using spray paint to trace object shapes. In 1968, he founded Atelier A, a workshop aimed at promoting the work of designers of everyday objects. Arnal's later career saw him return to painting and sculpture, as well as exploring writing, producing novels and plays. His work is celebrated for its contribution to post-war art movements and remains sought after by collectors for its innovative and expressive qualities.