Pierre Benjamin
Having primarily depicted the sun-drenched landscapes of southern France in much of my earlier work, these two particular paintings represent a significant shift in my artistic focus. They mark a new turning point in my creative journey, where I transition from capturing scenic environments to exploring more figurative subjects. The inspiration for these works comes from the traditional Swedish "torps," small, rustic cottages typically nestled by serene lakesides. These quaint structures, often surrounded by nature, evoke a sense of simplicity and tranquility, which I sought to capture through the figures and settings in these new paintings. By drawing upon the unique charm of the Swedish countryside, these works offer a fresh narrative direction, while still holding onto the emotional depth and atmosphere that has been a hallmark of my style.
In Midsommar Night, the scene is dominated by the dark, moody sky that creates an almost mystical atmosphere. The deep blue hues of the surrounding lake contrast sharply against the bright red roof top of the torp, whose clean and precise lines evoke a sense of order and simplicity amidst the wilderness. The lake's vibrant, dark blue waters reflect the sky, creating a striking harmony between nature and the built environment. This interplay between the darkness of the sky and the clarity of the torp gives the painting a serene yet slightly mysterious quality, as though the stillness of the night conceals untold stories.
By contrast, Midsommar Day embraces a more vibrant and lively color palette. The greens and yellows in the painting—richer, more varied, and warmer—draw the viewer’s attention to the lush vegetation surrounding the traditional Swedish cottage. The torp is set within a lively landscape where nature seems to flourish, the greenery symbolizing life, growth, and the long summer days that mark the season. The palette evokes a sense of warmth, vitality, and connection to the natural world, while still reflecting the simplicity and charm of these iconic rural structures. Where Midsommar Night is defined by its contrast and moodiness, Midsommar Day celebrates the verdant beauty and vibrancy of the Swedish countryside.
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Additionally as working as an artist, and teaching online he lectures in Academia at the University of South Wales, in Cardiff, Wales, U.K.
About the journey that took him where he is today:
Pierre began drawing daily at the age of 10, influenced by his upbringing. His father, a photographer, nurtured his artistic inclinations, while his late grandfather, Gérard Calvet, had an even greater impact. Gérard enjoyed a highly successful international career as a figurative painter, spanning several decades from the 1960s to the late 2010s, with his work gaining recognition both in France and the United States.
At the age of 15, Pierre transitioned to sculpting and stone carving under the guidance of renowned sculptor Serge Destarac, who specialized in marble and wood. In 1999, he furthered his education at the prestigious school of the Louvre Museum in Paris, where he studied Greek, Egyptian, Roman, and Assyrian antiquities—an invaluable opportunity that greatly expanded his artistic knowledge.
Pierre moved to the UK in the year 2000, after relocating from Paris where he studied History of Art in the prestigious Musee du Louvre.
While in Cardiff, Pierre then completed a Bachelor of Arts and Master Degree in games and animation in the University of South Wales, in the U.K.
His source of inspiration was always very diverse. From the classic Greek and Egyptian antiquities to the Renaissance and beyond. His own style is influenced by classic artists such as Van Gogh, Seurat, Toulouse Lautrec, Munch, Monet, Bernard Buffet and Georges Oudot.