Paul Ranson

Paul Ranson was one of the founders of the Nabis, the group of young Paris painters who took their lead from Gauguin. His pictures use flat colour, curving outlines and decorative pattern, with a strong influence from Japanese prints.

Born in Limoges, he studied decorative arts there and then at the Académie Julian in Paris, where he met Paul Sérusier, Maurice Denis and Pierre Bonnard. His studio became the Nabis’ meeting place. He painted mythological and mystical subjects, designed tapestries and wrote plays for puppet theatre. After his death his wife ran the Académie Ranson, which his friends had founded in 1908.

Apple Tree with Red Fruit and Arums and Purple and Yellow Irises show his flowing Art Nouveau line.