Born in the early 90s, Antoine Maurice lives and works in France. Self-taught artist, he founded his workshop to develop his own approach to design, blending functional objects with art. Antoine aspires to create unique, handcrafted pieces that blur the line between functional objects and sculpture. His creative process is rooted in observation and experimentation, incorporating prototypes and research. He places particular emphasis on elements such as texture, sensuality, curves, shine, and light, enriching his creations.

Drawing inspiration from both humanity and nature, Antoine achieves a harmonious fusion between these two worlds. By designing pieces that accompany everyday life while referencing natural forms and materials, he reconciles the human experience with the environment. This approach highlights the idea that design is not limited to functionality but can also evoke a deep connection with the natural world. Using high quality French wood, often reclaimed and meticulously selected, he creates works that transcend functional objects to become evocative sculptures. By integrating environmental concerns into his practice, Antoine aims to design unique pieces that honor both human cultural heritage and the intrinsic beauty of nature. This approach establishes a dialogue between art and daily life while emphasizing the importance of sustainable and thoughtful creation.

1. Where were you born and where are you from ?

I was born in 1992 and I am from the Yvelines, France – near Versailles.

2. What is your first memory connected to the art world ?

My first memory of the art world is visiting the Louvre for the first time when I was a child. The grandeur of the museum and its incredible collection left a lasting impression on me, igniting my passion for art.

3. Have you always worked in the art/design field ?

In a way, I started by learning woodworking with a ‘compagnon du devoir’, a very important institution of craftsmanship and skills in France. This organization, also known as “Compagnonnage,” has a long history in France and is recognized for maintaining and passing on high-level craft skills and knowledge

I was then trained in drawing at an art school and then specialized in woodworking at the furniture school in Paris, known as La Bonne Graine. I founded my workshop in 2017 to develop my own approach to design, focusing on creating pieces that are both functional and sculptural.

4. What led you to the design creation ?

My approach to design is a result of my formal training, personal philosophy, environmental concerns, and desire to create unique, handcrafted pieces that blur the line between functional objects and art.

5. How would you describe your creative process and it influences ?

My creative process is born from observation and research, involving prototypes, experimentation, and a blend of failures and successes. This ongoing journey allows me to continually advance and refine my practice.

6. Could you describe a typical day of your work ?

A typical day at work starts with lighting a fire, followed by sketching to prepare for future creations. I then move on to putting those ideas into practice, all while listening to music, enjoying a coffee, and taking breaks for cigarettes. I keep going until I’m completely exhausted.

7. Why did you choose the specific materials you work with ?

I often use reclaimed materials like old beams from ruined houses or wood destined for disposal. By using reclaimed materials, I aim to create « a new path for contemporary, minimalist and more nature-friendly creation ». Working with these materials allows me to create pieces that are “halfway between the functional object and the sculpture”. The unique characteristics and history of reclaimed wood likely inspire and inform my designs.

My use of discarded materials aligns with a philosophy of giving new life and purpose to objects that would otherwise be wasted. This reflects a broader ethos of sustainability and resourcefulness. The aged and weathered qualities of reclaimed wood can provide unique textures, colors, and patterns that contribute to the aesthetic appeal of my work. With reclaimed materials often requires additional skill and creativity to transform them into high-quality design pieces, allowing me to demonstrate my craftsmanship. Each piece of reclaimed wood has its own history, which adds depth and narrative to the final product. Overall, I chose wood because it is readily available and versatile, allowing for the creation of virtually anything one can imagine.

8. What are the technical particularities of your creations ?

My creations feature traditional joinery techniques, with a focus on texture, sensuality, curves, shine, and light. I draw inspiration from both humanity and nature, merging these elements to create unique and evocative pieces.

9. What advices could you give to beginning artists who would like to create sculptural design works ?

My advice to aspiring artists who wish to create sculptural design works is to work diligently, never stop pushing forward, and believe wholeheartedly in your potential for success, regardless of what others may say.

10. If your works had to belong to a design movement, in which one would you define it ?

I would define my works within the Brutalist movement. This style resonates with me due to its emphasis on raw materials, bold forms, and a celebration of functionality over ornamentation. I appreciate how Brutalism captures the essence of simplicity while allowing for expressive creativity.

11. What designers and artists have influenced you ?

I have been influenced by designers such as Charlotte Perriand, the Bouroullec brothers, Benoit Viaene, and many others. What captivates me are designers who possess unique characteristics and approaches that set them apart in the field.

12. What contemporary designers do you appreciate ?

I greatly admire contemporary designers such as Lucas Cober, Axel Chai, Kaspar Hamacher, and Maud Paul. Each of them brings a unique perspective and innovative approach to their work, which resonates with my own values in design.

13. What contemporary artists (in any kind of art) have you been inspired by ?

I find great inspiration in Pierre Soulages. His innovative use of black and exploration of light and texture resonate deeply with me, reflecting a unique approach to abstraction that challenges conventional perceptions of color and form.

14. If you had to summarize your creations in one word or sentence, what would it be ?

RAW

15. Is there anything you would like to add?

I’d like to thank the galleries that represent me. It’s important for me that my work is showcased by galleries that align with my values and artistic vision. I’m pleased to collaborate with Galerie Philia for my presence in the United States.

Proust Questionnaire with very short answers (one or a few words) :
(The Proust Questionnaire is a set of questions answered by the French writer Marcel Proust. Other historical figures who have answered confession albums are Oscar Wilde, Karl Marx, Arthur Conan Doyle, Stéphane Mallarmé, Paul Cézanne…)