Paul Cezanne

Respectfully dubbed “The Father of us All” by such respected names as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne is widely considered the artist responsible for laying the groundwork for the transition from the 19th century school of Impressionist painting into the Cubism trend which largely defined modern art of the early 20th century. A popular Post-Impressionist painter, Cezanne’s work is still recognized for its complex arrangement of intricate brushstrokes as well as sweeping planes of color. This artist’s masterpieces are also easily identified today by his choices in subject matter, which differed significantly from those of his contemporaries of the day, and which continue to draw the attention of art lovers and critics, alike.

Paul Cezanne, unfortunately, did not receive the “blessing” of his father when he chose to pursue the study of art, but he was given a small allowance to live off of in the beginning. Cezanne’s work took on a decidedly brighter tone when, in 1872, he began working under the tutelage of the then still undiscovered Camille Pissarro. It was during this time that Cezanne would be introduced to the principles of the Impressionists, including their preference for open-air painting.

Throughout his artistic career, Paul Cezanne would experiment with different styles of painting, spanning from his early works in the style of Romantic Expressionism to his most famous works during his involvement in the Impressionist Movement and, finally, demonstrating a style of painting that would inspire Cubism. Because of his evolving style between these artistic eras, Paul Cezanne effectively bridged the gap between 19th century impressionism and the “modern” art of the early 20th century that we know and love today.

Popular paintings by Paul Cezanne include Still Life with Basket of Apples, Compotier Glass and Apples (also known as Still Life with Compotie), Self-Portrait, Sill Life with Apples, Hortense Breast Feeding Paul, The Abduction, Still Life Bowl and Milk Jug, View of Auvers Sur Oise, Study of an Apple, Still Life with Skull and Candlestick, Still Life with a Plate of Cherries (also known as Cherries and Peaches), Three Skulls, Three Bathers, Tulips in a Vase, Bathers Mont Sainte Victoire in the Background, Still Life with Curtain and Flowered Pitcher, The Lac D Annecy, Compotier and Plate of Biscuits, Still Life with Bread and Eggs, Five Bathers, Bather with Outstretched Arms, Couples Relaxing by a Pond, Dish of Peaches and Still Life Skull and Waterjug.

Some of Paul Cezanne’s works caused a bit of controversy during his lifetime, but the appeal of his masterpieces was undeniable, and, after his death in 1906, the popularity of his works continued to grow; beginning with exhibitions in Paris. The “Father of Modern Painting” continues to garner critical acclaim and admiration, even today.