Niki de Saint Phalle (Neuilly-sur-Seine 1930 - 2002 La Jolla, Kalifornien)
was a French-American artist who gained international renown primarily for her colourful, large-scale sculptures. Originally working as a model, she turned to art in the 1950s – initially with expressive paintings, later with objects and installations.
Her work is characterised by socially critical themes, personal symbolism and a powerful, often playful style. Particularly well known are her so-called ‘Nanas’ – voluptuous, vivacious female figures that represent femininity, strength and joie de vivre.
In addition to sculptures, she also created large-scale art parks such as the Tarot Garden in Tuscany, which is considered one of her major works. Niki de Saint Phalle was a pioneer in combining art, architecture and public space and is now considered one of the most important representatives of 20th-century modern art.
