Summer Exhibition: Alexandre Abyla & Marie Deforche

20 June - 10 September 2024

Marie Deforche

Marie Deforche, born and raised in Provence, finds her artistic inspiration in the Mediterranean sun and sea. Her passion for drawing and painting grew stronger in her late teens and early twenties, leading her to experiment with various styles and techniques.

 

A significant influence on Marie’s work is Slim Aarons, the American photographer renowned for capturing the glamorous world of the Hollywood elite. Aarons’ vivid colors, masterful interplay of light and shadow, and sun-soaked scenes resonated deeply with her, leading her to recognize that the summer days of Provence were her true muse.

 

Marie’s paintings depict the vibrant summers of Provence, where intense light creates mesmerizing shadows and the colors are so vivid they almost seem to be crushed by the sunlight. Her canvases offer moments of pause and tranquility, much like Aarons’ photographs, with a distinctive emphasis on women. These women, often portrayed from behind in serene solitude, are bathed in the sun’s warmth, their faces hidden to evoke a sense of peace and contemplation.

 

Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of Provence, the Mediterranean light, and the nostalgic allure of the 1950s to 1980s as captured by Aarons, Marie’s paintings are vibrant expressions of the present moment. The play of light and shadow, combined with warm, muted colors, brings depth and serenity to her work. Each piece is a window into a world of warmth and calm, where the sun always shines, offering viewers a respite from the bustle of everyday life.

 

 

Alexandre Abyla

Alexandre Abyla’s art navigates the extremes of black-and-white painting, merging hyperrealism, pop art, and street art. An innate creator, Abyla’s passion for painting is fueled by his muse, an endless source of inspiration, fantasy, and passion. His work is a tribute to women, portraying them as bold and enchanting figures that form the core of his artistic expression.

 

With over 35 years of experience as a professional decorative painter, Abyla has created numerous decorations, frescoes, and trompe-l’œil in both the public and private sectors. His work spans a range of styles, including Renaissance, Baroque, Romanticism, Impressionism, Modern, and Contemporary, as well as abstract and figurative drawing.

 

With meticulous precision, he captures his muse’s profound gaze, her lips’ radiance, and her hair’s fluidity. His art is characterised by a unique blend of familiar elements, always infused with humour and romance. Each artwork embodies a chivalrous knight, respectful and attuned to his lady’s desires and moods.

 

Striking contrasts and subtle dynamics highlight the light of his muse, revealing feminine perfection in all its splendour, in a nakedness imbued with love and kindness. Alexandre Abyla’s work invites you to explore the delicate balance of humour, romance, and the timeless beauty of women.