Jean Chevolleau (1924-1996)

Lot 251 - Jean Chevolleau (1924-1996)
French painter
"Wild Coast in the evening", 1965
Oil on canvas, signed in the lower right corner.
Titled, countersigned and dated on the back
Dimensions at sight: H: 64; L: 91 cm

Jean Chevolleau was born in 1924 in La Roche-sur-Yon in the Vendée (France) where he spent his childhood and adolescence. In 1946, he entered the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Paris in Souverbie's studio. He also attended classes at the Ateliers Jaudon and Lemagny for engraving and frequented the workshop of Othon Friesz at the Grande Chaumière.
In the early 50's, his relationship with the art lover and patron Camille Renault (known as Big Boy) was decisive. It allowed him to exhibit his work regularly in his highly prized restaurant in Puteaux. It was there that he was noticed by one of the masters of Post-Cubism, Jacques Villon, who invited him to his studio, which was frequented by artists who were already recognized: La Fresnaye, Kupka, Léger, Estève, Picabia, Pignon, André Lhote, Manessier... This group of artists called "Groupe de Puteaux" will mark him for life.
In the 1960s, Jean Chevolleau developed his artistic approach beyond drawing and enriched his productions with more abstract subjects in pastel tones that would determine his artistic signature.
In 1975, after 30 years spent in his Parisian studio, he moved back to his native Vendée in Fontenay-le-Comte. Strongly inspired by the place, his productions will be abundant and will see the birth of some of his most beautiful works.
Jean Chevolleau died in 1996, and in homage to his beloved artist, the city of Fontenay-le-Comte welcomes every year artists in residence in what was his home.