Born in Uccle, Belgium, Jean-Michel Folon initially studied architecture before moving to Paris in the 1950s to pursue a career in drawing and illustration. He gained international recognition for his unique visual language, which often featured dreamlike, watercolor-washed landscapes and isolated figures that reflected on the human condition.

His practice spanned a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and tapestry. Folon is particularly noted for his graphic work, which frequently appeared in publications like The New Yorker and Time, as well as his public sculptures that integrated humanistic forms into urban environments.

Throughout his career, Folon maintained a prolific output that bridged the gap between commercial illustration and fine art. His work continues to be featured in major auction houses and retrospectives, cementing his legacy as a significant figure in 20th-century European art.