What I appreciate about craftsmanship and art in general is the fact that a creation is the materialization of everything that has been stored in our memory.
Indeed, everything we have seen, heard, learned, and experienced is subsequently reflected in what we do, more or less consciously. I therefore see the artisan object as a creation with an immaterial dimension, a meaning, almost an identity, and not just an object made of matter.
When I create, I strive to remain true to myself, without trying to please at all costs. Because I am convinced that by remaining authentic in my actions, my work will resonate. And that deep down, someone somewhere will recognize a piece of truth in it.
A contemplative gaze
To nourish my inspiration, I try to maintain a contemplative gaze on the world. I try to detach myself from screens, to focus on what surrounds me. This helps me to see beauty in small things: a particular light, an architectural detail, an interesting texture. Every detail, no matter how tiny, can fuel creation. This approach allows me to transform life into art. I can't help but look around me, pause at what touches me, and let these moments reflect in what I do.
A fascination for the Belle Époque
The main thread of my inspiration is the 19th century, and particularly the Belle Époque period (1850-1914). I am particularly interested in how people lived and what they valued, such as their way of life and the pursuit of a certain aesthetic in everything around them.
What also interests me about this era is that life was marked by great intellectual and cultural richness. Curiosity and openness to multiple disciplines were highly valued. Indeed, knowledge in various subjects was seen very favorably, unlike today where overspecialization is preferred. In the past, it was not uncommon for an individual to be interested in multiple varied subjects such as arts and sciences simultaneously... in fact, I'm probably not the only one who recognizes myself in that. Maybe you do too! Because nowadays, a person like that would rather be seen as scattered!
For my part, this way of approaching the world therefore influences my way of working. I try not to limit myself to a single area of expertise, but I try to enrich my artistic journey with several fields to make connections between them, such as history, music, etc.
An immersive work atmosphere to spark inspiration
To create, I need to set up a real atmosphere around me, almost like a ritual. Even before starting, I must immerse myself in a universe, enter a particular state of mind that puts me in the right condition. It is with this intention that I decorate and organize my creative space.
My workshop then becomes a separate space, designed to nourish my imagination. I have therefore decorated it with old objects and tools, flowers, and of course soft, calm music. All these elements contribute to creating a coherent atmosphere, in which my living and working environment fully aligns with what I feel and what I want to express.
It goes without saying that I thus seek to recreate the universe inspired by the Belle Époque that inspires me so much, by naturally integrating it into my daily life. Whether it's painting, architecture, or nature, these elements occupy a central place in my way of life and creation. They are not simple references, but constant sources of inspiration that dialogue with each other.
✨ So that you too can create an old-fashioned ambiance, I've created a collection of small notebooks inspired by the Belle Époque!
Conclusion
To conclude, I would say that behind every creation of Atelier Pastourelle lies much more than a simple object. It's a vision, a wish, an inspiration nourished by authenticity, slowness, and the beauty of the past. Imagining that each notebook, each creation, can have meaning and accompany the daily lives of those who choose it, is what motivates me to create every day.
With the hope that I, in turn, can inspire you.
🗨️ And you, what inspires you every day?
Share your thoughts with me in the comments, I look forward to reading them!
To be continued…
This article is just a glimpse into the world behind Atelier Pastourelle.
🌸 To learn more about the world of Atelier Pastourelle and discover my handmade notebooks, visit the online store here: atelierpastourelle.com
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