© Denise Colomb, 1954
Hans Hartung was a German-French painter and engraver, widely recognized as one of the major figures of 20th-century abstract art. Born in Leipzig, Germany, Hartung studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Leipzig and later at the Academy of Fine Arts in Dresden before settling in France in 1935. Hartung was a pioneer of lyrical abstraction, a style characterized by spontaneous gestures and expressive marks. His works are distinguished by bold use of lines, spots, and forms, often created with unconventional tools such as tree branches, metal brushes, and sprayers. This innovative and experimental approach earned him international recognition and influenced many contemporary artists. During World War II, Hartung enlisted in the French Foreign Legion and was severely wounded in combat, losing a leg. Despite this ordeal, he continued to paint and experiment with new artistic techniques, developing an increasingly dynamic and energetic style. Hartung received numerous awards and distinctions throughout his career, including the Grand Prix at the Venice Biennale in 1960. His works have been exhibited in the world's most prestigious museums and galleries, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, and the Tate Gallery in London. Recognized for his innovative approach and dedication to abstraction, Hans Hartung left a lasting legacy in the art world. His works continue to be celebrated for their vitality, raw emotion, and significant contribution to the evolution of abstract art.