Théo Tobiasse is known for his expressive figurative paintings and prints centered on themes of exileand the expat Jewish experience. The artist was born in Jaffa, Mandatory Palestine (present-day Israel) to Lithuanian immigrants.

The family settled in Paris in 1931 and, a decade later, lived in hiding for two years during the Nazi occupation of the city, with Tobiasse passing the time by making drawings. After the war, he worked as a graphic designer and produced tapestries, stage sets, and window decorations for luxury goods companies for nearly 15 years before turning to painting full-time. He won first prize at an exhibition of young painters in 1960.

Tobiasse’s paintings derive their imagery from the artist’s childhood in Lithuania and France and his experience of fear and isolation during the war. Their religious iconography and Biblical allusions invite comparisons to Marc Chagall.