Introducing Fran?ois Bonnel: A Journey of Joy, Simplicity, and Artistic Evolution

We are thrilled to feature Fran?ois Bonnel in our soon-to-open group exhibition Connecting Outcomes, at Maddox Berkeley St Gallery in London, opening January 16th.

Known for his minimalistic, abstract works that exude balance and joy, Fran?ois Bonnel has captivated art enthusiasts worldwide with his unique approach. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his transition from advertising to art, his creative philosophy, and why he chose abstract art.

Q: Fran?ois, your transition from advertising to art is remarkable. Could you tell us about that journey?

Fran?ois Bonnel: I spent 25 years in advertising, starting with traditional methods such as print and then moving into the digital space. With time, I felt increasingly drawn to art, something that had always been a constant in my life.

Art has been in my DNA since childhood. My mother, a fine arts graduate, and my grandfather were both painters. Our home was filled with creativity—painting, sculpting, crafting, and frequent visits to museums and exhibitions. However, my family didn’t see art as a viable career. They instilled in me the idea that painting was a passion, not a profession. That mindset stuck with me until much later in life.

At the age of 50, I reached a turning point. I wanted my work to bring me joy and meaning, and painting gave me exactly that. Leaving advertising allowed me to focus on art entirely, with no distractions. What followed was more encouraging than I could have ever imagined—doors opened quickly, and opportunities came in abundance.

Q: Why did you choose to focus on abstract art?

Fran?ois Bonnel: Abstract art has always fascinated me. Around a decade ago, I realised that my personal taste leaned towards minimalism and abstraction. I was particularly inspired by post-war abstract painters like Ellsworth Kelly, Sean Scully, and Carmen Herrera, whose use of colour and form felt both profound and liberating.

Abstraction allows me to explore simplicity and balance, creating compositions that resonate deeply with me. It also aligns with my philosophy of art as a source of pleasure. Unlike some artists, I don’t paint to convey a political message or to process inner struggles. For me, it’s about the joy of creation and the satisfaction of producing something that feels harmonious and uplifting.

Discover the full interview and learn more about Fran?ois Bonnel’s inspiring journey on our website—click here to explore.

Fran?ois Bonnel’s work will be showcased in our upcoming group exhibition Connecting Outcomes at Maddox Gallery, Berkeley Street. Opening January 16th, this exhibition is a celebration of artistic diversity and innovation. We invite you to register your interest for Fran?ois’s works and discover more about the artist and his creative journey.