Benjamin Vautier - this is an original

Ben Vautier: The "Provocateur" French Artist (1935-2024) Ben Vautier, also known simply as Ben (July 18, 1935 – June 8, 2024), was a renowned French artist celebrated for his playful and provocative works. He lived and worked in Nice, where he ran a record store called Magazin from 1958 to 1973. “This is an Original” – A Unique Lito One of Vautier's iconic works represents his signature brutality and wit. It is a lito (lithographic print) combined with an original acrylic painting. Vautier created a litho edition of 100 prints with the text "this is an original", but each piece was hand-painted with acrylic paint, making each work unique. The title, “This is an Original,” playfully challenged the idea of originality and mass production in art. Vautier's clever approach blurred the line between the reproducible and the unique, inviting viewers to question traditional definitions of art. Excellent Condition and Provenance This particular piece has been stored behind UV resistant glass, which has ensured its excellent condition with no signs of deterioration. It was acquired from the prestigious Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul, France. Vautier's works have been praised for their wit, humor and ability to challenge conventional artistic norms. This litto painting embodied his unique approach, making it a highly sought-after addition to any contemporary art collection. With his recent passing on June 8, 2024, Vautier's legacy as a groundbreaking and influential artist is cemented.