Biography

Gilles Aillaud was a prominent French painter, set decorator, and scenographer, born in 1928 in Paris and passing away in the same city in 2005. He was a key figure in the Nouvelle Figuration and Figuration Narrative movements, which sought to reinterpret figurative art in the post-war era. Aillaud is best known for his evocative paintings of animals, particularly those depicting zoo animals in large canvases where the presence of humans is implied rather than shown. His work often explored themes of captivity and freedom, as seen in his depictions of African wildlife in their natural habitats. Aillaud's contributions to the art world extended beyond painting; he was also involved in the theater as a set designer, bringing his unique artistic vision to stage productions. In 1964, he served as the president of the Salon de la Jeune Peinture, an influential position that underscored his impact on the French art scene. One of his notable works, "La bataille du riz," painted in 1968, reflects his engagement with contemporary political themes. Aillaud's work is collected for its distinctive style and its ability to provoke thought about the relationship between humans and the natural world.