Jean Sellier

Originally from Nantes, Jean Sellier worked as a “painter” all his life, as he described it, alongside his work as an architect.

He lived this “painting profession” intensely but in secret. Reserved by nature, communication and promotion around his work were not his priority. He also didn't like being the center of attention and preferred the shadows to the light. He remained like this all his life outside of official paths.

His work is marked by constant and demanding research. A great contemplative, the observation of the patterns and colors of life held a fundamental place in his life.

His notebooks bear witness to his daydreams about nature. There we find numerous details which punctuate the development of an observed and reinvented form: materials, volumes, textures. Thus, behind his geometric and organic compositions lies a careful examination of the ornaments present in certain insects, animals or plants. All tinged with a style specific to the 60s and 70s.

His life ended in 2007 in Pénestin in a small house that he had designed himself.

This place was one of solitude and inspiration as well as beautiful shared friendships. A place where he spent all his time creating, drawing, painting.

Protected from the demands of the market and fashion, his work has remained deeply personal. Without trying to please or sell, in total truth, he left behind him an immensely touching, inventive and profound artistic production.