André Masson

André Masson (1896–1987) was a French painter, illustrator, and sculptor known for his significant contributions to Surrealism and Abstract Expressionism. Born in Balagny-sur-Thérain, France, Masson's early works were influenced by Cubism, but he later embraced automatic drawing and gestural abstraction. His art often explored themes of the subconscious, dreams, and mythology, characterized by dynamic, organic forms and rich symbolism. Masson's experimentation with spontaneous mark-making and chance techniques, exemplified in works like "Battle of Fishes" (1926), marked him as a pioneer of Surrealist automatism. Forced to flee Europe during World War II, he settled in the United States, where his work continued to evolve, blending Surrealist and Abstract Expressionist elements. Masson's innovative approach to painting and his exploration of the psyche have secured his legacy as a key figure in 20th-century art.