Early Life and Education
Henri Pierre Albert Marie Beaufour was born on January 6, 1965, in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France. As the son of Albert Beaufour and the grandson of Dr. Henri Beaufour, founder of Beaufour Laboratories and precursor to Ipsen, Henri grew up in a family deeply rooted in the biopharmaceutical industry. He pursued his education at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Family Legacy in Pharmaceuticals
The Beaufour family has a significant legacy in the pharmaceutical sector. Following the death of Albert Beaufour in 2000, the family’s 76% stake in Ipsen was divided among his three children. Henri, along with his sister Anne Beaufour, controls 57% of Ipsen, serving on the Board of Directors for both Ipsen and Mayroy, the holding company that controls Ipsen. By 2020, their combined ownership in Ipsen remained substantial at 52%.
Henri’s fortune was estimated at €3 billion in 2018, reflecting his pivotal role in the company’s ongoing success. Ipsen, founded by his grandfather in 1929, has grown into a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, with a diverse portfolio of drugs marketed in over 115 countries.
Artistic Pursuits
In addition to his business acumen, Henri Beaufour is also an accomplished artist. He has trained in art and art history across the United States, France, and Italy. His artistic practice is characterized by a passion for literature and a profound curiosity for various cultural and philosophical disciplines. Henri dedicates significant time to exploring “the art of the hand,” learning from master sculptors while continually engaging in drawing and painting.
His artistic work spans nearly thirty years and encompasses a range of styles, including baroque, expressionist, and informalism. Henri’s drawings, paintings, and engravings serve as parallel and complementary explorations, allowing him to convey the complexities of life through visual art. Influenced by figures like Kirchner, Dubuffet, and Bacon, he often embodies an expressionist approach, delving into the tortured aspects of humanity while simultaneously celebrating the simplicity of existence.
Themes and Philosophy
Henri Beaufour’s art is marked by a singular originality that distinguishes it from current trends. His work captures a fertile paradox, navigating the tension between unbridled expressiveness and contemporary banality. Through his graphic universe, Henri questions the essence of the human condition, exploring themes of emptiness and grandeur.
He seeks to synthesize influences from his artistic forebears while establishing a unique voice that reflects his interpretation of life’s truth. His commitment to his craft and the exploration of meaning underscores the depth of his contributions to both the pharmaceutical industry and the art world.
Henri Beaufour stands as a multifaceted individual whose legacy extends beyond his family’s pharmaceutical empire. As both a successful businessman and a passionate artist, he embodies a harmonious blend of innovation and creativity. Henri’s journey reflects the influence of heritage while paving the way for future generations in both business and the arts.
