PARIS.- The Halle Saint Pierre in Paris is currently hosting a remarkable exhibition celebrating Malcolm de Chazal, one of the most influential Mauritian artists of the 20th century. Renowned as both a painter and a poet, Chazal’s work vividly captures the essence of Mauritius while exploring universal themes of spirituality, nature, and harmony. Acclaimed by cultural icons such as André Breton, George Bataille, and Léopold Sédar Senghor, Chazal’s art is a profound synthesis of poetic intensity and visual simplicity. Senghor famously described his work as “a geyser of sap, a torrent of lava, a jungle of metaphors,” highlighting its dynamic and transformative power.

This exhibition invites visitors into Chazal’s utopian vision, where humanity and nature coexist in perfect harmony. His works, deeply rooted in his connection to the natural world, use vibrant imagery of birds, fish, flowers, and trees to evoke a paradise lost—and perhaps rediscovered. By employing modest materials like gouache, cardboard, and plant fibers, Chazal created stunning, immersive compositions that resonate with ecological and spiritual significance.

An Immersive Journey into Chazal’s World

Chazal’s gouache paintings, which became his primary medium in the 1950s, are defined by their bold, two-dimensional style and striking use of color. His unique approach discards traditional perspective in favor of vibrant hues that create depth and movement. Objects are often presented in close-up, filling the canvas and appearing to reach beyond its borders. Yellows seem to leap forward, while blues recede, making his imagery almost tactile, drawing the viewer into his mystical universe.

Mauritius, Chazal’s lifelong home, was both his muse and his canvas. He considered the island a magical remnant of a lost Lemurian continent, describing it as a “fairy island” with an almost human spirit. Its rolling mountains, lush vegetation, and rich symbolism permeate his work, reflecting his vision of a world where nature and humanity are deeply interconnected.

Poetry and Painting in Harmony

Chazal’s art blurs the boundaries between writing and painting, as both were expressions of his singular creative vision. His poetic collection, Sens plastique, reveals his talent for weaving visual metaphors into concise, aphoristic language akin to haikus. He believed painting could unify what words often divide, stating, “The poetry of words stumbles; painting is there to reclaim everything and bring about reunion.”

His paintings are serene and timeless, with rounded forms echoing the natural curves of dodos and Mauritius’s landscapes. Playful and whimsical titles, such as The Fish Discarded its Bikini and The Dodo Returns from its Wedding, add a layer of lightheartedness reminiscent of Lewis Carroll or Robert Desnos. These works evoke a harmonious world of imagination and joy, offering a meditative escape for the viewer.

A Timeless Legacy

On view now at Halle Saint Pierre, this exhibition provides a unique opportunity to experience Malcolm de Chazal’s groundbreaking art. His works remain as relevant today as they were in his lifetime, serving as a reminder of the deep connections between humanity, nature, and the cosmos. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in his world, where painting and poetry converge to create a vision of harmony, spirituality, and wonder. This extraordinary showcase of Chazal’s work is a celebration of his enduring legacy as a visionary artist and poet.