Portraits

Antonin Anzil

How did your background lead you to your current work?

I grew up in an environment where artistic expression was very present. Before pursuing artistic studies at the Beaux Arts and Arts Déco, I was trained in drawing for more than 10 years by an engraver artist. He particularly introduced me to traditional engraving, its tools, and that particular paper. Tools and paper that I now use in a somewhat diverted way to create my bas-reliefs.

You work with paper with a jeweler’s precision, why did you choose paper sculpture as your means of expression?

I have a special affection for this paper medium. I love its touch, its smell, its infinite variety and possibilities. With my sculpting technique, I wanted to use paper for what it was, without ink, without color. To create a graphic work solely through its intrinsic material.

Where do your inspirations come from?

They are multiple. Any form, any image can inspire me a movement, a pattern. Landscapes of course, forms of nature, bark, coral… But also an architectural structure, an abstract painting, the fiber of a weaving, the patterns of a rug.

Some of your works are close to textiles, tapestry, and invite touch. How can they be adapted to interior decoration?

I believe that there are many ways to adapt my work to interior decoration. I started by translating my work into a collection of lighting fixtures, table lamps, pendant lights, etc., but also by covering room dividers with my bas-reliefs. The possibilities with paper are endless and considering new collections with talented artisans and designers is a very exciting prospect!

White is omnipresent in your works, why?

I like to use raw Arches vellum. The best chiaroscuro created by the light on the surface of the paper is achieved by the white of the paper contrasting with the dark shadow. It is this play of light and shadow that reveals the pattern.

How did you get to know Collection Latil?

I believe we shared similar tastes in artists and craftspeople. I was particularly drawn to what I saw on Collection Latil’s social media, and it was very natural for us to get in touch and arrange a meeting in my studio.

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