Jared French: A Visionary of Magic Realism

Jared French (1905-1988) stands as a singular figure in American painting, recognized primarily for his masterful application of egg tempera and his contribution to the burgeoning movement of magic realism. Alongside contemporaries George Tooker and Paul Cadmus, French explored themes of mythic symbolism and psychological depth within strikingly stylized landscapes and figures—visions that resonate with echoes of archaic Greek sculpture and delve into the subconscious realm championed by Carl Jung. Born in Ossining, New York, French’s artistic journey began formally at Amherst College where he earned a bachelor of arts degree in 1925. Shortly thereafter, he encountered Paul Cadmus (1904–1999) in New York City, forging an enduring partnership that profoundly shaped his creative trajectory. Cadmus encouraged French to abandon commercial pursuits and dedicate himself to “serious painting,” fostering a collaborative spirit that would define their artistic endeavors. A pivotal moment arrived in 1930 when French and Cadmus were students together at New York’s Art Students League, where Luigi Lucioni immortalized French in his evocative portrait "Jared French," now housed within the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This early collaboration established a stylistic kinship with Cadmus and Lucioni—artists who similarly embraced surrealist influences and explored dreamlike imagery. During the late 1930s and early 1940s, French participated in the Works Progress Administration (WPA), undertaking ambitious mural commissions that showcased his artistic prowess and commitment to social commentary. French’s distinctive style evolved over time, transitioning from initial explorations of sculptural forms reminiscent of archaic Greek statues—a deliberate homage to classical art—to later works characterized by “a kind of classical biomorphism.” These latter paintings depict fantastical organic shapes imbued with symbolic resonance, reflecting Jungian psychology's impact on his artistic vision. The figures in these pieces are presented as embodiments of ancestral memory – what Jung termed "the collective unconscious"—suggesting a profound engagement with universal human experience. French’s artistic legacy extends beyond individual artworks; he established French & Company, specializing in the sale and acquisition of European paintings from the Renaissance through mid-century modern eras, serving as a museum supplier since 19th century. His work continues to inspire artists and scholars alike, cementing his place as an important voice within the history of American art. Notable pieces include “Study of a Male Bather Standing in the Water,” “Offended Gods” and "Learning".