I’m a French multi disciplinary artist working across painting, drawing and paper sculptures. Nature acts as my main source of inspiration in all the disciplines I practice in.
In my paintings, I explore the themes of belonging and loneliness through a subtle combination of techniques to give a timeless aesthetic to untold stories.
My sculptures are a way to react in a positive way to the growing fear regarding the future of our environment. By recognizing and utilizing the often overlooked properties of discarded items I explore the themes of craftsmanship, sustainability and transformation to create a bond between the natural and artisanal worlds.
My work reflects personal curiosity and daily wonders of ordinary things by making use of reclaimed material such as paper waste while inviting nature itself being part of the final pieces.
The two main art movements that inspired me the most are french impressionism, more particularly their approach to painting outdoors as an experience of the present moment, and the “arts and crafts” movement for their use of creativity and nature as a source of inspiration, not hesitating blending different artisanal techniques.
I joined ArtCan because I believe that exhibition opportunities outside of traditional art galleries allow us to make deeper connections and give a sense of camaraderie with other artists, rather than nourishing a competitive attitude. The audience itself becomes part of the community too, and engages more with us through gentle and honest chats.
Like any artist I have to balance my art practice with lots of business managing time and administration. There are a few things I wish I had known earlier… one is to make sure you keep dedicated time in you schedule to experiment, even if it doesn’t lead to any finished project. Just for the sake of nourishing your creativity, just try and make mistakes on purpose.
Another piece of advice I would give to my fellow artists is to listen to yourself, your instinct already knows what to do! If you feel the need to give a new direction to your practice, just do it. As people we naturally keep changing over time, and so does the artist in us. It only makes sense to me that our practice should evolve with us, it’s a natural process we tend to forget too often.
Sharing and showing your work is important, but I always have work I keep for myself. My advice is to keep some time to make art just for your soul, where you don’t need to justify it.
And at last, meet other artists! From different places, different generations, working in various techniques. Being part of a community is what will help you grow!
Teaching is my next big plan as an artist. It took lots of work and help to get rid of the stupid comments and remarks I received at school or early in my career, and I could have given up if I wasn’t a stubborn woman. And I want to make sure anyone with the smallest need or desire to create is supported.
http://www.gemini-h.com
Instagram: @artof_geminih
