Gérard Courbouleix–Dénériaz, widely known as Razzia, is a French graphic artist born in Montparnasse in 1950. Distinguished as one of the last authentic poster artists in an era dominated by digital technology, Razzia maintains the traditional art form that once defined the golden age of advertising. Unlike his contemporaries who rely on computer-generated graphics, Courbouleix-Deneriaz continues to create his iconic posters from original paintings, preserving a craft that has largely disappeared from modern commercial art.
Artistic Style and Process
Razzia's artistic style distinctly evokes Art Deco aesthetics, characterized by bold colors, elegant lines, and sophisticated compositions. His technique stands out in today's digital landscape, as he begins each project with an original painting that later becomes a lithographed poster. This traditional approach connects his work to the grand tradition of poster art from the early 20th century while giving his creations a unique artistic integrity rarely found in contemporary advertising graphics. The artist divides his time between Paris and the south of France, drawing inspiration from these environments for his timeless visual language.
Career Development
Courbouleix-Deneriaz began his professional journey as a photographer in the music industry before transitioning to graphic design. The pivotal moment in his career came in 1979 when he created his first graphic from a photo shoot, leading to publications in international fashion magazines. Since then, Razzia has established himself as a preeminent figure in luxury advertising and commercial art, with his work appearing in major publications and prestigious venues worldwide.
Notable Collaborations
Perhaps most renowned for his long-standing relationship with Louis Vuitton, Razzia began working with the luxury brand in 1985 and has produced an impressive series of works for them over the decades. His poster series ""Art of Travelling in Style"" has become among the most sought-after and collected posters globally. The artist has also created work for prestigious events like the 1984 French Open and the 2000 Rockefeller Center Concours of Elegance. His impressive client roster includes Stetson Hats, Lancia Automobiles, L'Oreal, International Prêt à Porter Feminin, Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Harrods, the Nice Jazz Festival, the City of Deauville, various champagne brands, and restaurants across Europe and New York.
Legacy and Recognition
Razzia's work has attracted an impressive following, with notable collectors including Elton John, the late Jackie Collins, and Michael Caine. His distinct artistic approach and unwavering commitment to traditional poster-making techniques have earned him a unique position in contemporary graphic art. In 2007, a retrospective of his work was published, celebrating his contributions to maintaining the artistic integrity of poster design in the digital age. As one of the last practitioners of traditional poster art, Courbouleix-Deneriaz represents a living link to the golden age of graphic design while continuing to produce relevant, impactful work for modern audiences.