Pierre Nahon Remembers Arman and César

Pierre Nahon, former dealer of Arman, reflects on the artist's life and work following his funeral in New York. Nahon recalls the 25-year relationship between Galerie Beaubourg and both Arman and César, two Nouveau Réalisme artists. Despite their differences, they shared a brotherly bond. Arman joined the gallery first in 1975, followed by César a year later. Their mature works were exhibited together, highlighting their kinship. Nahon argues Arman and César were pivotal in the shift from modern to contemporary art, breaking with classical traditions through radical acts like Arman's 'Plein' exhibition and César's crushed cars. He recounts a poignant moment before César's death in December 1998 at age 77, when Arman visited him. Arman, a bohemian, contrasted with César's anxious nature. Nahon elevates Arman to monumental status alongside Michelangelo, Rodin, and Picasso, noting he died at 77 like Rodin. Arman's work combined skill and invention, lightness and gravity.