Arman French and American artist, collector Date of Birth: 17.11.1928 Country: France

1. Arman: A Pioneer of New Realism
2. Early Life and Influences
3. The Turn to Abstraction and New Realism
4. The Notorious Weed Gallery Scandal
5. The Colleres and Sculptures
6. International Recognition and Installations
7. Return to Painting and Musical Portraits
8. The Broken Violin Incident
9. Collector and Art Patron

Arman: A Pioneer of New Realism

Arman (1928-2005), born Armand Pierre Fernández, was a French-American artist, collector, and a founding member of the New Realism movement.

Early Life and Influences

Born in Nice, Arman initially studied philosophy, mathematics, and decorative arts. In the late 1940s, he met Yves Klein, who introduced him to Buddhism, astrology, and Rosicrucianism. Arman's early artistic endeavors were influenced by Surrealism, and he pursued painting after completing military service in Indochina.

The Turn to Abstraction and New Realism

In the 1950s, Arman experimented with abstraction, and his works exhibited the influence of Serge Poliakoff, Jackson Pollock, and Kurt Schwitters. His first solo exhibition was in 1956 in Paris. From 1959, he shifted his focus to creative innovation, experimenting with imprint techniques and creating "Accumulations," compositions of identical objects such as jars.

The Notorious Weed Gallery Scandal

In 1960, Arman's exhibition at the Galerie Iris Clert in Paris caused a scandal when he filled the gallery with weeds. This provocative act established him as a prominent artist. Shortly after, Arman co-founded the New Realists movement with Yves Klein and other artists.

The Colleres and Sculptures

Arman's "Colleres," performance actions where objects were broken or painted, gained recognition in the early 1960s. He also expanded his repertoire to include sculptures made from objects cast in concrete or suspended in polyester.

International Recognition and Installations

Arman's fame grew through exhibitions at major international events, including the 1967 Montreal World's Fair and the 1978 Dijon sculpture exhibition. His monumental Accumulations and sculptures adorned various urban spaces throughout the world.

Return to Painting and Musical Portraits

In the 1980s, Arman returned to painting, creating abstract expressionist works inspired by New Realism. He also created a series of portraits of great composers, each composed of musical instruments associated with them.

The Broken Violin Incident

In 1988, at a banquet in Beijing, Arman famously smashed a violin against the wall to create a mosaic to be auctioned for the restoration of the Great Wall of China. The incident generated controversy, casting a shadow over his reputation.

Collector and Art Patron

Arman was an avid collector of diverse objects, including clocks, radios, and ancient artifacts. He supported the work of other artists and established the Arman Museum in his hometown of Nice, showcasing his own works and temporary exhibitions.