Addresses

L’Écrin Pop-Up Gallery | Biarritz |

Tell us about the expertise of the four artists in the exhibition.

Whether painters, designers, or archaeo-metallurgists, all possess an extraordinary craftsmanship and approach to materials, favoring techniques and singular gestures that characterize their unique creations. The shaping of ceramics and metal, or the coloring of textile supports, are disciplines that require a certain technicality and sensitivity. L’Écrin highlights the technical mastery and raw or sophisticated aesthetics of the works exhibited in Biarritz.

What does the title of the exhibition represent?

“L’Écrin” is a Pop-Up Gallery designed to showcase precious objects or those carrying exceptional craftsmanship. A sort of treasure chest where one can find a beautiful item to wear or display, or even unique pieces rich in meaning. Above all, it is a space for discovery, encounter, and beauty.

What prompted you to exhibit in Biarritz?

Carole Fraresso, the founder of the Motché jewelry house, lives in the Basque Country. It was only natural for her to propose the idea of hosting a second exhibition in Biarritz, in the form of a summer Pop-Up Gallery, open to the locals and vacationers of Biarritz. It was also about providing visibility to creators and artists in the Imperial City, outside of the Parisian capital. The Mercure Plaza Hotel in Biarritz, with its ideal setting facing the seafront, hosted this summer showcase from July 16 to 22.

What is the link between the artists and the exhibition?

All the artworks speak about the body through the material, between sensuality and gesture. The coming together of these four artists is connected to the convergence of artistic universes revolving around different materials: metal, textile, ceramics, and pigments. This year, artists Bix du Brusle and ceramicist Sonja de Monchy joined us. L’Écrin is the logical continuation of a first exhibition that took place in 2017 in the Drouot district of Paris with the artist Elo de la Rüe du Can and Maison Motché. This initial collaboration of “Soies Peines Appliquées d’Or” inspired us to continue our exploration of the multiple historical, technical, and symbolic references of artistic accessories in the luxury universe.

What were the highlights of the exhibition?

A delighted gaze, sharpened curiosity, in-depth discussions, a thank you or multiple thank you… Every day had its highlights!

Do you have any other events planned?

For now, the projects are not defined, but rather ideas, including making L’Écrin a permanent space where new series and new artists can be featured throughout the year.

Top