Odilon Redon
Odilon Redon (1840–1916) was a French symbolist painter, printmaker, and pastellist known for his visionary and dreamlike works that delved into the realms of imagination and subconscious thought. Born Bertrand-Jean Redon in Bordeaux, France, he displayed an early talent for drawing and pursued artistic training under the tutelage of Jean-Léon Gérôme. He further honed his skills at the École des Beaux-Arts and explored lithography and etching under Rodolphe Bresdin. Redon's early works, often in charcoal and lithography (referred to as his "noirs"), featured fantastical and often unsettling imagery, including mysterious creatures, eyes, and hybrid beings that reflected his interest in dreams, myths, and psychological exploration.
Redon's artistic focus shifted later in life as he embraced color, creating vibrant pastels and oils that depicted flowers, mythological figures, and ethereal scenes. His use of vivid color and luminous compositions contrasted sharply with his earlier monochromatic works, showcasing his versatility and deepening his exploration of symbolism and spirituality. Redon's art was highly influential in the development of the Symbolist movement and later had a profound impact on the Surrealists, who admired his ability to tap into the subconscious and evoke a sense of mystery and wonder.
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Full Name: Odilon Redon (Bertrand-Jean Redon)
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Birth and Death: 1840–1916
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Profession: Painter, Printmaker, Pastellist
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Influences: Symbolism, mythological and dreamlike themes
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Legacy: Pioneering figure in the Symbolist movement, known for blending fantastical imagery with psychological depth and later vibrant, luminous compositions
