In the 2000s, Pierre Soulages continued to evolve and deepen his exploration of black and its interplay with light, a period that marked significant milestones and further recognition of his groundbreaking work. Soulages's practice, deeply rooted in the exploration of the color black—what he termed "Outrenoir" (beyond black)—saw new developments during this time. This era encapsulates his ongoing investigation into the depth, texture, and luminosity of black as a means to explore light itself rather than the absence of light, a pursuit that has defined much of his career. A significant highlight of this period was his continued experimentation with materials and techniques, notably his shift to using acrylic paints. Starting in 2004, the fast-drying characteristics of acrylic allowed him a greater speed in execution, enabling a more immediate and dynamic interaction with the canvas. This technical evolution facilitated new ways for Soulages to manipulate light through the texture and layering of paint, further enhancing the reflective qualities that are central to his "Outrenoir" works​ (Art in Context)​. During the 2000s, Soulages's contributions were recognized through various retrospectives and exhibitions, affirming his position as a major figure in contemporary art. Notably, he was the first living artist invited to exhibit at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg and later at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow in 2001, a testament to his international acclaim​ (Wikipedia)​. The Musée Fabre in Montpellier dedicated a room to his work in 2007, presenting a donation of twenty paintings that spanned his career from 1951 to 2006, and in 2014, the Musée Soulages was inaugurated in his hometown of Rodez. This museum, intended to permanently display his works and host temporary contemporary exhibitions, represented a significant milestone, showcasing the most complete display of his work from his first 30 years​ (Wikipedia)​. Soulages's artistic philosophy, centered on the profound and multifaceted exploration of black, has continued to intrigue and inspire. His use of thick layers of paint, manipulated with various tools to create textured surfaces that absorb and reflect light, underscores his interest in the sensory and emotional effects of blackness. Soulages's works are not merely visual experiences but are meant to evoke introspection and a deeper engagement with the immaterial qualities of light and space. The 2000s were not just a period of recognition for Soulages but also a time of profound productivity and innovation, as he further refined his exploration of "Outrenoir." His work during this era underscores a career that has been dedicated to pushing the boundaries of abstract art and exploring the depth and complexity of color, light, and texture​ (Art in Context)​.