Artist Profile | Cartoon & Caricature

André François

André François (1915–2005) was a Hungarian-born French cartoonist, illustrator, and graphic artist. Born as André Farkas in Temesvár (now Timișoara, Romania), he studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Budapest. In 1934, he moved to Paris and studied under renowned poster artist Adolphe Cassandre . He became a French citizen in 1939. François worked as a painter, sculptor, and graphic designer but is best remembered for his cartoons. His work is noted for its subtle humor and has been compared to that of Saul Steinberg . He contributed illustrations to French leftist newspapers like Le Nouvel Observateur . François illustrated books by authors such as Jacques Prévert . His art reached a broader audience through publications like Punch in the UK and The New Yorker in the US. In 1965, he created a notable cover illustration for the UK Penguin edition of Lord of the Flies . He was a close friend and collaborator of Ronald Searle . François was a member of the Alliance Graphique Internationale . His style combined surrealism with satirical wit. In 2002, a fire destroyed much of his studio and artwork. Despite this loss, he continued to create art until his death. François passed away in 2005 in Grisy-les-Plâtres, France. He left a lasting impact on the world of illustration and graphic design. His works are celebrated for their originality and expressive quality. François's legacy continues to inspire artists worldwide. He remains a significant figure in 20th-century graphic arts.