Philippe Manson, a contemporary French painter, has carved a distinctive artistic path defined by two distinct periods, each marked by unique styles and techniques. Born into the realm of surrealism, his first period, spanning from 1978 to 1991, witnessed the creation of oil paintings infused with figurative inspiration. In this phase, Manson's canvases served as surreal landscapes, capturing the essence of his imaginative vision.
A pivotal shift occurred in 2011, heralding Manson's second period. This chapter unfolded with acrylic paintings characterized by a realist style, showcasing his evolution as an artist. The transition from the surreal to the real marked not only a change in technique but also a shift in Manson's artistic expression.
Manson's creative journey is a testament to the duality of his artistic exploration—two periods, two techniques (oil and acrylic), and two styles (surrealist and realist). Yet, a common thread runs through his work, driven by the inspiration derived from his travels and a persistent search for new horizons.
The underlying motivation for Manson's artistic endeavors lies in the pursuit of capturing the emotional essence of fleeting moments, memories, promising dawns, and late evening reveries. His thematic focus often centers on the concept of departure and the perpetual search for something beyond the present.
Manson's paintings, whether in oil or acrylic, consistently reflect his meticulous technique. Preferring flat areas, he begins with background layers that gradually evolve into a complex interplay of opaque and translucent elements. Each successive layer contributes to the creation of fluid gradients and transparencies, a meticulous process that belies the apparent simplicity of the final composition.
Street furniture elements, such as fire hydrants, street lamps, and panels, become tangible representations of memories, serving as anchors for Manson's exploration of abstraction. His abstract creations, though relatively recent, stand as experimental "essays," a testament to his ongoing research and the influence of new discoveries.
Philippe Manson's artistic journey, marked by a fusion of surrealism, realism, and abstraction, reveals a profound commitment to emotion and memory. His ability to manipulate layers and contrast within his compositions imparts an ethereal quality, leaving viewers immersed in the unreality of his visual narratives. As he continues to push the boundaries of his creative expression, Manson remains a dynamic force in the contemporary French art scene.
