Gen Paul, also known as 'Eugene' Paul (French, 1895–1975) was born and raised in the bohemian atmosphere of Montmartre, France. Paul was a self-taught artist who began to draw and paint at an early age. Gen Paul received no formal training as an artist and yet was able to support himself making art for almost sixty years. One challenge Paul faced in life was that during the First World War, which he served in, the artist lost one of his legs. However, that didn't stop him from traveling the world, including the United States after his sparked fascination with jazz. 

Paul was also influenced by many avant-garde artists who worked in the vibrant and creative community of Paris at that time. Gen Paul worked with and was influenced by fellow artists Juan Gris and Jean Dufy who also lived in Montmarte. In 1920, Paul exhibited at the Salon des Indépendants in Paris. In 1928, he exhibited fifty paintings at the Galerie Bing & Cie with Pablo Picasso, Georges Rouault, and Chaim Soutine. In 1934, he was awarded the Legion of Honor by the French government. 

Throughout his formative artistic career, Paul began to develop a unique and dynamic style of expressionism. He is known for his frenzied brushstrokes and bold, angular depictions of street scenes, figures, and horse races. Gen Paul's work can be found in many major museums and collections. 

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