Gérald Foltête

Gérald Foltête is a French artist known for creating paintings in which he draws on the timeless and topical themes explored in the work of literary greats and his own life experiences. Born in eastern France and a graduate of the École Supérieure de Réalisation Audiovisuelle, he worked in the creative industries for several years, in segments ranging from cinema and film to photography and advertising, before deciding to devote himself solely to art.

In his work, Foltête explores the overlap and overlay of the two worlds we experience – reality and the one in which we dream –remaining silent contemplating the fragile balance that exists between them. He has long been drawn to world-renowned authors, even transcribing some of their writings to gain an in-depth understanding of their work and the weighty themes they explore, which he aligns with his own experiences and ideas in his creative process. These and other topical issues that he feels passionate about, including the complexities of human nature, free will, justice and injustice, and human rights, are among those explored in his art. Concepts often feature in microcosm form - a hallmark of his work - alongside strict use of space and heightened by poetic emotion. In keeping with his passion for ethical, social, and political issues, Foltête encourages audiences viewing his work to reflect on it and ask pressing questions rather than remain silent.