Marie Raymond

Marie Raymond (1908–1989) was a French abstract painter known for her contribution to the post-war avant-garde movement in Paris. Born in La Colle-sur-Loup, in the south of France, she initially studied fine arts in Nice before moving to Paris in the late 1930s. Her early work was heavily influenced by Fauvism and Cubism, but she later became associated with the burgeoning abstract art movement of the mid-20th century.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Raymond gained prominence for her vibrant abstract compositions that emphasized color and light. Her work explored spiritual and cosmic themes, reflecting her fascination with metaphysical ideas. During this period, she became part of an influential circle of abstract artists and intellectuals, alongside figures such as Nicolas de Staël and Pierre Soulages. Her paintings were exhibited widely, both in France and internationally.

Apart from her artistic practice, Marie Raymond was also an important cultural figure in Paris. She organized a series of salons, known as the “Sunday Salons,” which became a hub for avant-garde artists, critics, and writers. These gatherings were pivotal in shaping the post-war Paris art scene.

Raymond was also the mother of Yves Klein, another key figure in 20th-century art. Her influence on her son’s development as an artist was significant, particularly in his exploration of immateriality and abstraction.

Marie Raymond’s work remains a testament to the vibrancy and innovation of abstract art in the mid-20th century, and she is celebrated for her contributions to the intellectual and artistic culture of her time. She passed away in Paris in 1989.