Jean Hélion

Jean Hélion (1904–1987) was a French painter associated with the abstract art movement. Born in Couterne, France, Hélion initially pursued architecture before turning to painting. He gained prominence in the 1930s as part of the Parisian avant-garde scene, embracing abstraction and geometric forms. Hélion's early works, such as "Composition" (1934), exhibited a dynamic interplay of shapes and colors. Despite initially aligning with abstraction, he later transitioned to figurative painting, influenced by his experiences during World War II. Hélion's later works explored themes of human struggle and existentialism, often with a bold, expressive style. Throughout his career, he experimented with various techniques and styles, contributing to the evolution of modern art in the 20th century. Hélion's versatility and innovative spirit mark him as a significant figure in the development of abstract and figurative painting.