Odette Caly (1914-1993)

“Caly’s work has long been known and appreciated by amateurs and collectors to such an extent that, at first glance, it may seem unnecessary to introduce this artist to the public. Numerous solo exhibitions have been devoted to her, she has regularly participated in various salons and group exhibitions, several important awards have been granted to her, and many of her works have been acquired by the French State and are held in private collections in Europe and the United States.

But one thing cannot be emphasized enough: this body of work—whether painting, tapestry, or stained glass—throws wide open the doors of dreams. Caly’s bouquets are an offering to our desire for happiness; her landscapes, a symbol of our melancholy.

Nothing is left to chance in Caly’s works.

As with the greatest artists, her instinct is always guided by reason, and her reason always instinctive. And if I were to make a comparison, it is to Mozart or Vivaldi that I would think, for the rigor of these compositions disappears beneath their grace.”

Jean Picart le Doux, 1972.