When did you decide to become an engraver?
I met, somewhat by chance, a heraldic engraver in Lyon who shared his passion with me. I was immediately taken by the multiple aspects of this profession: the creative dimension, the contact with materials, the diversity of possible applications and the history behind the objects produced.
How do you combine tradition and innovation in your work?
I am very familiar with modern tools such as the laser machine, 3D printing and 2D-3D computer graphics, which allow me to meet the demands of my customers. I use both digital and traditional tools when designing objects. I also seek to modernise my craft by proposing different uses of traditional savoir-faire.
©Erwan Kerneur
What is a memorable moment in your professional life?
I’ve had the chance to work on many beautiful and exceptional pieces, but I will always remember the emotion I felt the first time I discovered a singing bird music box that I was asked to engrave. Seeing this mechanical bird move so subtly, so delicately, was magical. It is this emotion that I wish to share today through the objects I work on.
What do you enjoy most about engraving?
Participating every day in the creation and personalisation of a new object that has meaning for its future owner. These objects are destined to last, to cross generations, to be passed on, to carry a memory. I also appreciate the collaborations and meetings that my profession offers.