Jacques Villeglé

Jacques Villeglé, born Jacques Mahé de la Villeglé on March 27, 1926, in Quimper, France, was a revolutionary French artist renowned for his innovative collage art and pivotal role in the New Realism movement. A graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Rennes, Villeglé's artistic path was shaped by his encounter with fellow artist Raymond Hains. Together, they would create a dynamic collaboration that would define much of their careers. In the 1950s, Villeglé coined the term "poster artist," reflecting his focus on the artistic potential of torn posters found in urban spaces. His works, often composed of these discarded street elements, were seen as a direct commentary on society's political, social, and cultural dynamics. Through his "guerrilla war of signs," Villeglé used these torn and faded fragments to create vibrant, expressive works that connected the streets to the museum, bridging high art and pop culture.

In recent years, Jacques Villeglé's artistic legacy remains influential, particularly within the realms of Street Art and Nouveau Réalisme. Even after his death in 2022, his work continues to inspire and shape the discourse around modern and contemporary art. A major retrospective exhibition in 2022 highlighted his lasting impact, drawing attention to his distinctive fusion of art and activism. Villeglé's work, celebrated for its bold commentary on urban life, remains an essential part of the conversation about the evolution of contemporary art. His pieces are featured in major collections worldwide, and his innovative use of found objects and torn posters continues to influence both established and emerging artists globally. Jacques Villeglé's ability to transform everyday materials into powerful art speaks to the timeless relevance of his vision and the enduring impact of his work on the world of contemporary art.

Villeglé's innovative approach to collage and his use of urban materials led him to become a founding member of the Nouveau Réalisme movement in 1960, along with artists like Yves Klein and Arman. His work evolved over the years, with significant exhibitions in over 140 solo shows worldwide, from the Centre Pompidou in Paris to the Guggenheim in New York. In the late 1960s, Villeglé expanded his artistic exploration into sculpture, working with materials like bronze, glass, and corten steel. His iconic "Lacéré Anonyme" works, made from torn posters, reflect his ability to capture the essence of the city and the ephemeral nature of modern life. Known for his deep engagement with political and cultural themes, Villeglé's art continues to resonate today as a testament to the power of urban art in addressing contemporary issues.