Francois Gall

Born in Cluj in 1912, Francisc Gall studied in Rome and Paris, and in 1936 he settled permanently in France, where he would later be recognized for his impressionistic style. For a short period in 1939, he returned to Cluj to his father. His oil paintings, emphasizing the human figure, are deeply inspired by Impressionist masters, especially Edgar Degas. Gall had a predilection for painting women (especially his wife and daughters) engaged in traditionally feminine activities - ballet, hair styling, sewing - which he rendered with free, expressive brushstrokes and brilliant pastel colors. In addition to his figurative works, the artist also captured French landscapes, particularly beaches and Paris. He befriended remarkable artists of the time, such as Picasso, Derain, and Friesz, and became a French citizen in 1942. As recognition for his work grew, he was awarded the Francis Smith Prize, and in 1947 he won his first prize at the Paris Salon. François Gall's works are in the collections of several museums and galleries. These include the Museums of the City of Paris, the Museum of Auxerre, the Museum of the French Union in Versailles, the Museums of Budapest, and the Museum of Modern Art in Vienna. Galleries featuring Gall's works include the Salon d'Automne, Salon des Indépendants, Salon des Tuileries, and the Salon d'Asnieres Fine Arts Gallery.