How Clarice Smith Met Hervé Odermatt

Donatienne Graham Bates played a pivotal role in introducing the artist Clarice Smith and the respected Paris gallery owner, Hervé Odermatt.

Hervé Odermatt’s Remarkable Story

Hervé Odermatt (born Gaston Odermatt on March 21, 1926) is a prominent, retired French art dealer, modern art collector, former World War II resistance fighter, and philanthropist. He is widely recognized as one of the most visionary and influential figures in the 20th-century French art trade. In 2020 he penned his autobiography Le Chinois: Itinéraire d’un enfant placé jusqu’au cœur du Gotha Mondial, offering readers fascinating insights into his journey. He celebrated his 100th birthday in March 2026.

Connections and Collaborations

Hervé and Donatienne have a longstanding connection—he was a cherished friend of Dona’s parents, with whom he shared many interests and activities. This close relationship naturally extended to Dona.

Dona first met Robert and Clarice Smith in the South of France, and their paths crossed many more times in Washington, D.C. She fondly recalls a particularly memorable evening: a beautiful dinner held in celebration of the opening of an exceptional Van Gogh exhibition at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. in 1998.

Artistic Collaboration

Recognizing Hervé’s expertise and influence in the art world, Dona immediately thought he would be an excellent contact for Clarice, especially regarding the exhibition of her paintings. She collaborated with Hervé to organize an exhibition for Clarice at rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. Following this success, Hervé continued to support Clarice’s work with an exhibition in Miami.

In 1995, Clarice painted a portrait of the gallery owner.

A Legacy Continued

At 100 years old, Hervé Odermatt remains active and in good health, continuing to inspire those around him.

Portrait of Hervé Odermatt by Clarice Smith
1995 / Oil on canvas / 27.5″ x 31.5″