Habitat & Urban Matter
Monotypes and collages
I've always harbored a deep affection for cities, a passion seeded in my childhood spent amidst the bustling streets of Paris. Memories flood back of exploring my grandparents' Le Corbusier apartment, and losing myself in the whimsical modernism of Jacques Tati's films. Even now, as I wander the urban landscape of North American cities, I find myself captivated by its ever-evolving architecture. From the sleek lines of newly erected office blocks to the weathered facades of abandoned warehouses, each structure tells a story, weaving together threads of history and human experience. Whether bathed in the glow of thoughtful design or cloaked in the shroud of neglect, there's an undeniable allure to these buildings that speaks to me.
This series of artworks is my attempt to capture the essence of these urban landscapes, to offer glimpses into the lives lived within their walls. Each piece, whether zoomed in on intricate details or presenting a broader panorama, seeks to convey the grandeur of these structures—their imposing facades, the fractured beauty of broken windows, the kaleidoscope of colors reflecting both the surrounding buildings and the ever-changing sky. Through my work, I hope to provoke contemplation on the human experience entwined with the urban environment, to find and create beauty amidst the chaos of city life.
Color has always been a cornerstone of my artistic expression, particularly in my exploration of modern engraving and print art. In this series, I experimented with monotypes, embracing improvisation and layering to imbue each piece with depth and nuance. While the overall aesthetic nods to the tradition of engraving and etching, the infusion of color—rendered in various half-tones, shades, and densities, as well as collage—breathes new life into the artwork, offering a richness unattainable through conventional methods.