Art UK has updated its cookies policy. By using this website you are agreeing to the use of cookies. To find out more read our updated Use of Cookies policy and our updated Privacy policy.

(b St-Quentin, 15 Apr. 1886; d Cannes, 4 May 1966). French painter, writer, and teacher. In 1918 he met Le Corbusier, with whom he founded Purism, but he is more important as a writer and teacher than as a painter. He lived in London, 1935–9, then in New York, 1939–55, founding art schools in both cities. After returning to France he settled in Cannes, where he directed a studio for foreign art students. His most important book is Art (1927), translated as Foundations of Modern Art (1931; enlarged edn., 1952). This is a study of the interrelationship of all forms of human creativity, including science and religion, and is one of the most widely read books by any modern artist. However, the great reputation Ozenfant enjoyed in the interwar period declined sharply afterwards.

Text source: The Oxford Dictionary of Art and Artists (Oxford University Press)


Do you know someone who would love this resource?
Tell them about it...