Pierre Soulages (1919–2022) was a renowned French painter and printmaker, best known for his profound exploration of black as the focal point of his abstract art. Frequently referred to as the "Painter of Black," Soulages pioneered an approach he called Outrenoir ("beyond black"), which centered on the interaction between textured black surfaces and light. His works are marked by bold, sweeping brushstrokes and a deep commitment to uncovering the depth, emotion, and nuances that black can convey.
Hailing from Rodez, France, Soulages demonstrated an early passion for art, drawing inspiration from prehistoric and Romanesque influences. In the 1940s, he began creating abstract pieces featuring thick, gestural black strokes, quickly earning recognition across post-war Europe. By the 1970s, he had fully embraced Outrenoir as his artistic identity. By layering black paint, Soulages created richly textured surfaces that play with light, producing a unique luminous quality. His art draws viewers into a contemplative space, emphasizing contrast, texture, and the intricate relationship between light and shadow.