RENE GUIETTE

BIO Rene guiette

Rene Guiette (1893-1973) was born into a period of artistic upheaval. Traditional aesthetics were thrown aside in a declaration of experimentation and artists began exploring with original ideas about the functionality of materials and the purpose of art. A tendency to move away from the narrative and towards abstraction was common practice during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, an element clear in Guiette’s work. From the commencement of his artistic career we are taken on a journey of exploration and development whereby his place as a canonical modern artist is forged.

Guiette’s career can be compartmentalized into three stages, the first of which can be observed during the 1940’s. Influenced by esteemed artists such as Picasso and Georges Braque, Guiette composes scenes abundant with everyday objects, characteristically broken down to form the cubist style. Intentionally sectioning these objects alludes to their three dimensional form, meanwhile emphasizing the flatness of the canvas rather than creating depth. Guiette’s exploration of post-cubism is extensive and was the catalyst which inspired his artistic journey.

There is a distinctive transition in Guiette’s work during the late 1940’s, whereby the artist moves away from cubism and towards an experimental style driven by the desire to observe the materiality and functionality of the medium. The subject matter was varied yet simple; often containing only one focal feature. Using a range of materials such as gouache, ink and oil paint mixed with sand, Guiette examined the role of the medium as an imperative element to the artwork.

Later in his career, influenced by the Zen philosophy, Guiette’s painting evolved towards a sort of transcendent calligraphy. His works are in charge of graffiti or contain purified signs that invite contemplation. Guiette’s abstract paintings from this period are a method of studying the function of signage and mark making.

Guiette’s rejection of traditional aesthetic forms in favour of abstraction and freedom of expression is characteristic of a post-war artist, though Guiette stands out for numerous reasons. His association with philosophy is evident; his artwork displays moments of his own thoughtful progression throughout his artistic quest.