Contemporary Abstract Expressionist Color-Field Landscape, Les Champs VIII., 2020

Christian Manoury  

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

Inspired by the wonderful countryside surrounding his atelier in the South of France, a beautifully strong and colourful painting reminiscent of the colour field works of De Stael. The painting catches the light and changes throughout the day. Manoury has a way of capturing the energy of light within his colours which fly and dance across the background. This is a piece to lose yourself in again and again.

This artwork presents a dynamic blend of abstract forms and vibrant hues, dominated by a palette of greens and yellows. The upper section features a swirling amalgamation of lemon and chartreuse, evoking a sense of vibrant energy and organic movement. Below, fragmented strokes of green cascade down, interspersed with subtle hints of blue, creating an impression of a serene landscape beneath a luminous sky. The artist skillfully balances chaos and harmony, using broad brushstrokes to convey both texture and depth. The gentle transition from bright, energetic colors to more muted tones invites viewers to explore the emotional resonance of nature. This piece stands out for its ability to evoke the freshness of a spring day, capturing the essence of renewal and growth with assertive, expressive strokes. Its abstract quality encourages personal interpretation, making it a captivating visual experience.

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.