Bestiaire Fantastique

Andre Francois

Known primarily for his satirical illustrations and comics, Andre Francois was equally as prolific in his fine art output, working in oils, pastels, and fine prints until very near his death at age 89. His style, as well, was ever changing. However, Abstraction, Cubism, and elements of the fantastical were essential markers of his style, as seen in this figure of an imagined four legged creature. He’s used an almost crude, primitive outline of what could be a horse or ox and employs sugar-lift in black and sky blue to decorate its bulky form. The simplicity of color and shape give the creature’s heft a lightness, and the effect is circus-like, playful, yet still anchored in Francois’ knowledge of ancient stone carvings and sculpture.