Early Career and Influences

Herbin began his artistic career as a Fauve, exhibiting with artists like Matisse and Derain at the Salon des Indépendants in 1906. He later moved to the Bateau Lavoir in 1909, where he interacted with Picasso, Braque, and Gris, influencing his transition to Cubism.

Cubist and Abstract Phases

Herbin's work evolved through various phases: Cubism: His first Cubist works appeared in 1913, and he participated in the historic exhibition of the Section d’Or in 1912. Ornate Cubism: From 1917 to 1921, he moved to an ornate phase of Cubism, akin to folk art. This was followed by a more figurative style from 1922 to 1925. Organic Abstraction: In 1926, he shifted to organic, often spiral-like forms before returning to 'pure' geometric abstraction.

Geometric Abstraction

Herbin's most renowned works are from his later period, characterized by geometric forms: Flat, colorful compositions of triangles, circles, and rectangles. These works are marked by hard-edged shapes and pure, unmodulated colors. Plastic Alphabet: In 1946, Herbin developed a compositional system known as the 'Plastic Alphabet,' which involved correspondences between geometric shapes, colors, letters, and musical notes. This system was detailed in his book L’art non-figuratif non-objectif published in 1949.

Color Theory

Herbin's use of color was significantly influenced by Goethe's Theory of Colours. He chose colors for their symbolic power and contrasting effects, adding to the vibrancy and structure of his paintings.

Associations and Exhibitions

Herbin co-founded several influential groups, including the Abstraction-Création group in 1931 with Georges Vantongerloo, and the Salon des Réalités Nouvelles, where he was a regular exhibitor and member of the Comité Directeur until 1955.

Legacy

Herbin's work had a major influence on post-war abstract artists, particularly those practicing geometric abstraction. Artists such as Victor Vasarely and Jean Tinguely have cited Herbin as an inspiration for their own work. His contributions to abstract art continue to be recognized through various retrospectives and exhibitions.