François Rousseau

Bio

**François Rousseau: A Visionary of Movement and Expression** François Rousseau is an innovative artist whose work intricately weaves together the themes of the body and nature, inviting viewers to explore the essence of humanity in motion. With a profound background as a portrait painter, Rousseau has transitioned into the realm of filmmaking, drawing inspiration from the dynamic worlds of sport and dance. For him, film serves as a unique medium that harmoniously unites his diverse passions—drawing, storytelling, photography, music, and dance—into a singular artistic expression. Rousseau's artistic journey began with drawing and painting, laying the foundation for his exploration of visual storytelling. Over the past 25 years, he has delved deeply into the possibilities of photography, capturing the interplay of light and form during both his travels and in the intimacy of his studio. His work reflects a meticulous construction of images that provoke contemplation about the human experience, particularly in motion. His portraits, often inspired by the vigor of athleticism and the grace of dance, manifest as striking photographic compositions that resonate with energy and emotion. Since 2001, Rousseau's personal research has culminated in a series of acclaimed art books published by prestigious houses such as Rizzoli New York, including notable titles like "Men in Motion" and "Ora, Voyage à Tahiti." His work has been showcased in esteemed museums such as the Maison Européenne de la Photographie (MEP) and galleries including Pierre-Alain Chalier, Artcurial, and the Grand Palais. Utilizing an 8x10 large format camera designed for producing exceptionally large prints, he captures his subjects with remarkable depth and clarity. In recognition of his artistic contributions, Rousseau received the VILLA MEDICIS HORS LES MURS PRIZE in 2002 for his project "Habibi, New York." He further expanded his oeuvre with "Atelier," an ambitious collaboration with renowned French writer Patrick Grainville, commissioned by the Maison Européenne de la Photographie. In recent years, Rousseau has embraced film as a powerful extension of his artistic practice, allowing him to intertwine all his forms of expression—drawing, photography, music, dance, and cinema—into a cohesive narrative that captivates and inspires. Through his work, François Rousseau continues to challenge our perceptions of movement, inviting us to reflect on the beauty and complexity of the human experience.