Bernard Gantner: The Luminous Legacy of an Alsace Prodigy
Bernard Gantner, born in 1928 in Belfort, a charming town nestled within the Alsace region of France, was not just an artist, but a prodigy. Recognizing his innate talent by the tender age of nine, his gift for the arts was undeniably profound. Fortuitously, his grandfather, an esteemed educator, became the first to nourish young Gantner’s passion, introducing him to the marvels of the natural world and laying the foundation of his artistic vision.
World War II brought both challenges and opportunities for the budding artist. The town’s museum, under the stewardship of its curator, was shut to the general populace due to wartime exigencies. This very curator discerned Gantner’s potential and not only ushered him into the intricacies of oil painting but also gave him unprecedented access to the museum. With the world outside in turmoil, Gantner found solace within these hallowed halls, drawing inspiration from medieval masterpieces and the works of art luminaries such as Delacroix, Courbet, and Seurat.
Post-war, the allure of Paris beckoned. Enrolling at the prestigious School of Fine Arts, Gantner immersed himself in the city’s rich tapestry of culture. He wandered its museums, frequented its galleries, and marveled at its iconic architecture. Yet, the call of home was irresistible. Returning to Belfort after a transformative year, he embarked on his professional journey. It wasn’t long before his work caught the discerning eye of eminent art critic Claude Roger Mars. This recognition soon translated to Gantner receiving the esteemed Critic’s Prize in 1961, propelling him to the forefront of the art world.
Beyond painting, Gantner achieved acclaim for his extraordinary prowess in lithography. Over the decades, more than 60 exhibitions, spanning France, Great Britain, the USA, and Canada, celebrated his genius. Among the most notable venues was the Dyansen Galleries, proudly helmed by my father. The art world mourned the loss of this remarkable talent when Gantner passed in 2018, but his legacy continues to inspire.
Esteemed Museum Holdings:
Sundgauvian Museum, Altkirch
Belfort Museum of Fine Arts
Tokyo Central Art Museum, Ginza, Tokyo
Victoria and Albert Museum, London