How would you define your work?
I am mostly inspired by minerals and plants and also by personal experiences. They allow me to define my style, which is in constant evolution. Like a musician with notes, I rub, mix, shock and harmonise elements so that they become one.
Do you have any special competence?
I collaborate with contemporary artists and I also weave my own creations. I can interpret any kind of tapestry, in volume, double-sided, any kind of chain calibration and use very different materials: natural, vegetable, animal and synthetic. I use both chemical and natural dyes.
©Gérard Crinière
Can you tell us more about your artistic collaborations?
Before any weaving, I explain the challenges of the profession to the artist. I receive him or her in my workshop, we discuss the interpretation, the colours and the materials. Then, I usually make some samples to be as accurate as possible when collaborating on work.
What advice do you give a young person who wants to become a weaver?
Transmission and sharing of expertise is very important to me which is why I opened a training centre. I make sure every student has what it takes. Weaving involves a long apprenticeship; it is a commitment of several years. I would also remind him or her of the need for consistency, humility and perseverance.