André Cottavoz (1922–2012) was a French painter born in Saint-Marcellin, near Grenoble. From an early age, he showed a passion for painting, encouraged by his mother, and pursued formal studies at the École des Beaux-Arts in Lyon, graduating in 1945. Following World War II, Cottavoz exhibited at Silk City in 1948 and, together with fellow Lyon-trained artist Pierre Coquet, co-founded a group of painters known as Noisme (or Sanzisme in French), also referred to as the Lyon School of New Figuration. The group was composed of artists under 30 whose shared goal was to paint “in the light,” embracing a freedom of expression without adherence to any prescribed technique.

In 1953, Cottavoz received the Fénénon Prize from the University of Paris, a recognition that significantly bolstered his reputation. His international exposure grew through a close friendship with Japanese art dealer Kiyoshi Tamenaga, whom he met in 1957. Tamenaga organized numerous exhibitions of Cottavoz’s work in Tokyo, helping introduce his art to Japan. Among his celebrated works is a luminous and inspiring depiction of Mt. Fuji.

Cottavoz’s paintings are held in both public and private collections, demonstrating his skill in capturing light, atmosphere, and the spirit of his subjects. Over a long and distinguished career, he remained committed to the principles of Noisme, blending formal training with a luminous and expressive approach that continued to evolve until his death in 2012.