Contemporary French Abstract Expressionist Acrylic on Canvas., 1992

Christian Manoury  

A contemporary Abstract Expressionist acrylic on canvas by French artist, Christian Manoury. Signed to the back of the canvas.

This artwork captures a minimalist aesthetic with its muted color palette and textured surface. A prominent horizontal crack runs across the upper section, resembling a geological fault line, creating a sense of movement. Below, fragmented white and beige panels form a collage, evoking layers of peeling plaster. Bold black strokes intersect this neutral backdrop, drawing attention with their stark contrast and dynamic energy. These elements resemble abstract figures or calligraphic gestures, adding depth and intrigue. The juxtaposition of rough textures against the smooth, subdued background enhances the tactile quality of the piece. The composition invites the viewer to explore the interaction between chaos and order, solidity and impermanence. This artwork's unique blend of abstraction and texture resonates with themes of decay and reconstruction, offering a compelling visual narrative while maintaining a sophisticated simplicity.

Born in Paris, Manoury studied Fine Art at the Grande Chaumière, Paris. He had his first show at Galerie Audouin, St Germain, Paris.

Manoury spent the 80s and 90s working as a free-lance fashion designer for various luxury brands, travelling worldwide. Christian has always been interested in Art with a particular fascination for African and Papua New Guinean Tribal Art and has built up a considerable private collection over the years. He has also contributed to various prestigious collections.

In 1994 he spent time painting as a full-time artist in the Hamptons, under the wing of Larry Rivers.

This was followed by a period of designing furniture and more fashion, but Christian has always kept a studio wherever he lived (New York/Paris/London/Spain..) and enjoys painting whenever time allows. Today he paints full-time in the South of France where he now resides.

Christian says ; « Painting for me is COSA MENTALE »

Where the first paintings were figurative and subjective, searching for the meaning of being and the origin, his latest work is more impressionistic and minimalist.

His travelling companions are the music of Debussy, Satie and Philip Glass.