Albert Gleizes (1881–1953) was a pioneering French artist, theorist, and writer, best known as a co-founder of Cubism. His innovative approach to form, perspective, and color made him a key figure in the development of modern art, influencing generations of artists and shaping the trajectory of abstraction.
Born in Paris, Gleizes initially worked as a textile designer before dedicating himself to painting. Influenced by Impressionism and Fauvism early on, his style evolved into a more structured approach. In 1911, he co-authored the seminal text Du “Cubisme” with Jean Metzinger, articulating the theoretical foundations of Cubism. This book, the first major treatise on the movement, emphasized the importance of breaking away from traditional perspective and exploring the fourth dimension in art.
Gleizes exhibited prominently in pivotal Cubist exhibitions, including the 1911 Salon d’Automne and the Armory Show in New York in 1913, which introduced modern European art to America. His works, such as The Bathers (1912), exemplify his use of fragmented forms, rhythmic compositions, and bold color to convey multiple viewpoints simultaneously.
During World War I, Gleizes developed a spiritual approach to abstraction, influenced by mysticism and his engagement with religious themes. He later became a leading advocate for non-representational art, promoting its potential for universal harmony. His writings, including La Peinture et ses Lois (1924), expanded the theoretical discourse of modernism.
Gleizes’ legacy lies in his dual role as a creator and theorist, contributing to the intellectual and aesthetic foundation of abstract art. His works are housed in major collections worldwide, ensuring his enduring impact on the history of modern art.