How did your artistic journey begin?
I'm originally from Paris and have always lived in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. As a child, on my way to school, I would often stop in front of art gallery windows displaying the work of truly remarkable artists. My father introduced me to the concept of kineticism, explaining that by folding paper accordion-style, you could create kineticism.
The idea was to create two paintings in one. I went to my uncle's house and took photos of their children, then cut the images into strips and attached them to the pyramid-shaped corners. The effect was stunning, and I was able to sell enough portraits to buy a second-hand car.
All this was possible thanks to my father's ingenuity. He was a very creative man, often painting beautiful works of art in his spare time.
What influences your art?
Growing up in Paris, from a young age I frequently visited iconic museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. However, it was the modern artists displayed at the Pompidou Centre that truly influence my art. I am particularly influenced by the pioneers of kinetic art and Op Art such as Victor Vasarely, Yaacov Agam, and Carlos Cruz-Diez
Alongside them, great names from Pop Art like Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, James Rosenquist and Roy Lichtenstein also play an important role in my creative process.
Op art and kinetic art have always been my main sources of inspiration. But my work draws its inspiration from a variety of sources, which is why I take great liberty in the subjects I work on.
At the same time, the great masters of the Italian and Flemish Renaissance taught me the fundamentals of composition, light and colour, guiding my own creative process. By exploring twentieth-century artistic movements such as Expressionism, Cubism, Surrealism and Pop art.
I have discovered a wealth of inspiration that manifests itself in my creations. Every encounter, every work of art and every daily experience enriches my language, driving me to seek innovation. In other words, it's this diversity of inspiration that fuels my desire to create and drives me to constantly challenge established conventions. My work is about giving emotion to the viewer and surprising. For me, a work of art is a success if it elicits emotion, if it resonates with us, if it stirs something within us.
What is your desired impact upon the audiences who see your art?
I want my works to convey positive energy and evoke emotion and surprise. My intention is to create a dynamic connection with the viewer, where the visual movement stimulates both reflection and wonder. By playing with optical illusions and transforming images depending on the viewing angle, I invite the audience to rediscover the artwork at every moment.
Have you had an exhibition in Belfast/Northern Ireland before?
I have exhibited extensively in London and Dublin but this will be my first exhibition in Belfast and Northern Ireland. I am very excited to bring my work to a Northern Irish audience for the first time.
Where did the title for your current show come from?
My main aim is to pay tribute to the great masters, who have been and still are my guides and inspirations, including Vermeer, Matisse, Klimt, Le Douanier Rousseau and Frida Kahlo, among many others.
I love to blend their traditional subject matters with my contemporary style. I have also started to use a lot of gold leaf which brings the works to life.
The title ‘Timeless Visions’ pays homage to their work which I view as timeless masterpieces.
Is your art moving away from a pop art influence into a new direction?
Yes, definitely. Since 2019, my work has taken a new direction with the creation of my first piece inspired by Art Nouveau. My "imaginary museum" allows me to explore new aesthetics by drawing from art history and contemporary movements. Surrealism also plays a central role in my artistic evolution, as evidenced by my collaboration with the Espace Dalí in Paris, for which I created special pieces following their invitation.
Has technology/the digital era changed how you work?
Absolutely. Digital technology has radically transformed the way I work, saving me a tremendous amount of time. In my early days, I created everything by hand, which required immense precision and patience. Today, digital tools allow me to work faster and more efficiently, without sacrificing the quality or creativity of my pieces.
An artist whose work I would collect if I could?
There are so many, but if I had to choose one, it would be Pierre Soulage. For the light he was able to bring out of his deep black.
What is your favourite artwork and why?
Those in which I focus on the word "Love". Because this word is powerful and universal.
Describe your creative process?
My best ideas come when I'm relaxed. I get inspired by things I see in my daily life, by my travel, by visiting exhibitions and museums. I brainstorm and jot down notes. And finally, I stay open-minded and flexible, because who knows where my next big idea will come from?
The best piece of advice I ever received?
Always follow through on your ideas.
A place that means a lot to you other than your studio?
My home surrounded by my family.
In another life I would have been?
A world-class sportsman.
