Portuguese Woman (1916)

Robert Delaunay was a trailblazing French painter, renowned for co-founding the Orphism art movement with his wife, Sonia Delaunay. Characterized by its vivid colors and emphasis on abstract, geometric shapes, Orphism emerged as an offshoot of Cubism, but focused on lyrical and expressive elements brought out through color and light.

Born in Paris on April 12, 1885, Delaunay embarked on his artistic path at an early age. Upon finishing his secondary studies in 1902, he took up an apprenticeship at a theater set design studio in Belleville, where he became familiar with stagecraft and decorative arts. These experiences sparked his interest in using striking colors and creating dynamic compositions.

By 1903, Delaunay had committed himself to painting, and the following year, in 1904, he began showing his works publicly. His early paintings reflected the influence of Impressionism, but he soon progressed towards greater abstraction. His distinctive approach set him apart, prompting him to delve into the relationship between color and light using ever more abstract forms.

Over the course of his career, Robert Delaunay’s artistic expression continued to develop, leaving a lasting mark on modern art. His use of bright colors, circular motifs, and his interest in movement are evident in masterpieces such as the “Windows” series and his renowned “Eiffel Tower” paintings. Delaunay’s innovations played a crucial role in shaping contemporary abstract art and have inspired countless artists around the world.