Jeune femme lisant en kimono (1887)

Émile Henri Bernard (28 April 1868 – 16 April 1941) was an influential French Post-Impressionist painter and writer, born in Lille, France. He is best known for his close relationships with Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and Eugène Boch—connections that played a crucial role in shaping modern art. Later in his career, Bernard also became acquainted with Paul Cézanne, another prominent figure in art history.

Bernard produced his most significant work in his early years, particularly from 1886 to 1897. During this time, he was instrumental in the emergence of Cloisonnism and Synthetism. Cloisonnism stands out for its strong outlines and expanses of vivid color, evoking images of stained glass or medieval enamel. Synthetism, on the other hand, emphasized the merging of shape and color to convey the artist’s personal vision and emotions.

Although Bernard is chiefly recognized for his painting, his talents extended well beyond the visual arts. He was also an accomplished writer, creating plays, poetry, art criticism, and various texts on art history. His literary work is particularly prized for offering rare, direct perspectives on the leading artists and groundbreaking movements at the end of the 19th century.

Because of his innovative approach and his insightful observations about the art of his era, Émile Bernard occupies a distinct place in art history. His contributions are vital for understanding the evolution from Impressionism to the more symbolic and abstract movements that shaped modernism in the 20th century.