Maxime Maufra (May 17, 1861 – May 23, 1918) stood as a prominent French painter, specializing in landscapes and marine scenes. He was also skilled in etching and lithography.
Maufra's artistic journey commenced at the age of 18, encouraged by Nantes-based artists like the siblings Charles Leduc and Alfred Leduc, as well as landscape painter Charles Le Roux However, he didn't immediately commit to a full-time painting career. Instead, he initially pursued business endeavors, only dedicating his spare time to painting from 1884 to 1890. During this period, he discovered the works of the Impressionists and even showcased his own pieces at the Paris Salon in 1886.
In 1890, Maufra decided to leave his business pursuits behind and fully immerse himself in painting. He departed Nantes for Pont-Aven in the Brittany region of Finistère, where he encountered artists like Paul Gauguin and Paul Sérusier. In 1894, Maufra held his inaugural solo exhibition in Paris at Le Barc de Toutteville. Subsequently, he established a professional connection with Durand-Ruel, signing a contract that lasted throughout his lifetime.
Following his time in Brittany, Maufra became the inaugural resident artist of the Bateau-Lavoir in Montmartre, an iconic artistic residence in Paris. Each year, he revisited Brittany, especially the Quiberon area, seeking inspiration for his works. His artistic quests also took him to other regions such as Dauphiné (1904), Midi (1912), Algeria (1913), and Savoy (1914).
Maufra's creative focus lay primarily in landscapes and maritime vistas. His compositions often exhibited echoes of the pointillist technique pioneered by Camille Pissarro and Alfred Sisley. He also drew inspiration from the vivid colors and bold strokes characteristic of the Pont-Aven School.
Throughout his life, Maufra maintained his artistic independence, dedicated to capturing the splendor of nature.His explorations extended beyond traditional painting to encompass the realms of etching and lithography as well.
