Agathe Singer is a French illustrator based in Paris. She studied graphic arts at Duperré and Penninghen before working as a graphic designer. Over time she developed a passion for gouache and began to paint. Inspired by artists like Matisse, Le Douanier Rousseau and Frida Kahlo, she was drawn to creating worlds of vibrant and imaginary flora.
Themes of femininity, beauty and nature often dominate her bold, colourful work, making it the perfect fit for clients in the fashion, textiles, interior design and cosmetic sectors. Her client list includes M le magazine du Monde, l’Oréal, Maisons du Monde, Snapchat, WWF, Fortnum & Mason, Penguin Random House, The Telegraph and The Peninsula Boutique.
"Beyond the pop colours and rounded shapes, I think there is something a little strange about my images: I hope that this intrigues those who look at them and makes them want to come back for more. »
“My influences are quite diverse. I love the illustrations in classic botanical books like those by Redouté or Fuchs, or the modern designs of Josef Franz. I am also fascinated by artists like Alex Katz for the power of his simplicity, or David Hockney for his vibrant palettes and the joyful energy that emanates from his paintings, whether portraits or landscapes.”
“I am very much influenced by classical paintings where the hands are exaggeratedly posed and expressives, I like the coded language that this adds to a portrait – we try to decipher its meaning, the expression of the hand can take on as much importance as that of the face. It’s also a recurring element in fashion photos, which often have to feature a close-up of a portrait, while showing a hand full of jewelry or a watch… it often results in absurd, whimsical poses, which inspire me a lot.”