By Maurice Loirand
Located in Norwich, GB
A perfect painting for lovers of Japan, and for admirers of naïve or outsider art.
Painted during Maurice Loirand's long residence in Japan, this charming composition reflects the deep affection he developed for his adopted country and its distinctive landscape and architecture.
Maurice Loirand (1922–2008) led a remarkable life and is today recognised internationally as one of France's important naïve painters.
Born into a working-class family in Brittany, near France's Atlantic coast, he began work in the shipyards at the age of fifteen. During the Second World War, he joined the French Resistance, where he met painters, poets and intellectuals who introduced him to an artistic world far removed from his origins.
Entirely self-taught, Loirand devoted every spare moment to painting and soon began exhibiting alongside established artists. After moving to Paris in the 1950s, he continued to earn his living as a technician while painting through the night. In 1968, he finally became a full-time artist.
International travel and numerous exhibitions followed. He exhibited in Brazil, Argentina and New York, including with the Jean Tiroche Gallery. His work has been shown alongside paintings by Léger, Matisse and Picasso, and The Collector's Guild of New York commissioned him to produce a series of lithographs.
A visit to Japan transformed his life. Captivated by the country, he remained there for eighteen years and married the Japanese poet...
Category
1970s Outsider Art Maurice Loirand Art