Odilon Redon

Odilon Redon (1840-1916) decided as a child to become an artist, and first studied botany and architecture as foundation for his work. In 1858 he moved to Paris, where friendships developed with Corot, and the lithographer Fantin-Latour, who encouraged Redon's first lithographic exhibition in 1879. By 1886 Redon's symbolist paintings were recognised, and he attracted the attention of younger painters like Gaugin and Matisse. Redon continued painting and studying botany until his death at only 56.