Michel Henry

Michel Henry, acknowledged as an important painter in French contemporary art, is often compared to Fantin-Latour, the great master of flower subjects. However, it is Michel Henry's unique post-impressionist style, fused together with an almost surrealistic overlay that exhibits his singular ability to orchestrate clarity, balance and a strong visual impact. His work is further distinguished by the blending of delicate tones and strong accents into his luminous compositions of flower still lifes, landscapes and seascapes.

Since 1952, his work has been singled out for France's highest prizes and awards, including the coveted Grand Prix de Jeunes of the Nationale de Beaux Arts Society (1965) - the highest achievement for a French painter. The Museum of Modern Art of the City of Paris, the French Government, the Museum of Valence, the Museum of Bogota and the Museum of Alencon are among the prestigious institutions who have acquired his work for their permanent collection.

Born in Langres in 1928, the aspiring artist attended the Ecole National Superieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He later studied with Narbonne, Georg, Chapelain-Midy and Leguelt. In 1957 he became a member of the House of Descartes in Amsterdam, and the following year was named member of the Casa Valasquez in Madrid, honors which are quite exceptional for a young artist. He is a member of the Salon d'Automne as well as a member of its jury. He also exhibits in the Salon de la Societe Nationale des Beaux-Arts, the Salon Comparaisons, and the Salon Terres Latines. In 1976, Michel Henry shared in the honor of presenting the Salon d-Automne exhibition in Japan.

As a French artist whose works are known internationally, Michel Henry, over a period of twenty-eight years has earned the status of goodwill ambassador in the universal world of cultural exchanges. For his dedication and unselfish contributions to art and artists from all lands, his country recently honored him by being awarded the prestigious la Croix de Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur by the Minister of Culture Mr. Jean-Phillippe Lecat.