Fondation Georges Rouault


Georges Rouault

Georges Rouault occupies a unique place amongst twentieth century artists. Although a contemporary of Cubism, Expressionism and Fauvism, he never formally associated himself with any of these movements. Often considered a religious painter, he was, above all else, independent. He did not find his inspiration in the abstract, but rather in the realities of everyday life and in an authentic spirituality.

Paintings by Georges Rouault

Georges Rouault occupies a unique place amongst twentieth century artists. Although a contemporary of Cubism, Expressionism and Fauvism, he never formally associated himself with any of these movements. Often considered a religious painter, he was, above all else, independent. He did not find his inspiration in the abstract, but rather in the realities of everyday life and in an authentic spirituality. Georges Rouault was a painter who imbued his paintings with a spiritual aura even without the use of religious subjects.

Les Pierrots bleus, circa 1943 (detail)
Miserere 23 (detail)

Graphic work

Printmaking constituted a major part of Georges Rouault’s work. His Miserere is considered his greatest masterpiece. Rouault worked on a number of illustrated books and used a variety of techniques including engraving, lithography and etching. Closely related to his paintings, printmaking offered him a greater form of expression through tone and shading and allowed him to develop his drawing technique.

Ceramics and other techniques

Georges Rouault worked continually and relentlessly for more than 70 years. Hence why his work is so vast and varied, both in its technique and in its subject matter. The artist experimented with ceramics for several years and produced a large number of objects. His work has been translated into tapestries and stained-glass windows.

Nus, 1911, collection Larock Granoff Paris
The Fondation Georges Rouault

The Fondation Georges Rouault

The mission of the Fondation Georges Rouault, via this website, is to promote the work of Georges Rouault and provide art lovers with information on news and events dedicated to the artist.
The extent of Georges Rouault’s activity in painting, printmaking and ceramics is considerable. Over the course of more than 70 years, the artist also produced a number of writings including poetry, reflections on art, and correspondence with collectors, art critics, painter friends, and writers.  We hope that by visiting this website you will learn more and gain a better understanding of the artist and the richness of his work.
Founded in 1992, the Fondation Georges Rouault is an official charitable organisation.