Portrait of the Artist: Hugues Chevallier IRSUT
As his new twin exhibition ‘Paste The Present’ opens at our Rue de Grenelle and Boulevard Raspail shops in Paris, we spoke to the artist about his creative process, unconscious inspiration and why he wants people to feel alive when they see his work.
If someone asked you ‘what makes you feel alive?’, what would your reply be? Hugues Chevalier IRSUT is hoping that art can be the answer. Perhaps even his art. And he’s got good reason to: inspired by Tachism and abstract impressionism, it’s not hard to see the pure joy and immediacy in his vibrant, dynamic work.
As his new twin exhibition – ‘Paste The Present’ – opens at our Rue de Grenelle and Boulevard Raspail shops, we spent some time picking the artist’s brains about where he gets his inspiration from, his thoughts on fashion and what he hopes people take away from his art.
Where do you find inspiration?
I love learning about the history of painting and its many movements. Travel, architecture, fashion, music, and metaphysical questioning mainly influence my work. However, I believe that I find inspiration in everything around me unconsciously. I’m lucky to live in the mountains so when I feel stuck on a project or piece of work, a cross-country ski trip in the pristine white snow or a foraging walk gives me the right energy.
How would you describe your work?
My intentions change almost daily. I often have the impression of putting together elements on impulse and that my artwork is beyond me… It's a mix of intuition, spontaneity, uncertainty, and doubt. A face to face with myself. Sometimes I describe my work as ‘jovial abstraction’ and I think of my large formats as meditative surfaces.
What does your typical working day look like?
The first moments of the day are quite ritualised. I start the day by taking my son to school and then I go to the workshop. When I enter the studio, I only light a small lamp and do a meditation session in the dark. Then I settle down at my desk for a writing session. I first write down everything that comes to mind. I try to come up with ideas, then I write my program for the day (which I probably won't respect unless it's an emergency). I always work on several pieces or projects at the same time. If the work is complicated or the inspiration does not come, I leave to recharge my batteries in the mountains. When it's time, I rinse my brushes and go pick up my son from school.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you do and why?
It would most likely be a creative job, in the world of fashion, architecture, or music. I like to question myself and follow my instincts.
‘Paste The Present’ is open at Paul Smith Rue de Grenelle and Boulevard Raspail now.
Discover More
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Portrait Of The Artist: Matthew Hilton
To prep for the opening of Tough Moment, Matthew’s new exhibition at our Mayfair shop, we visited the sculptor and furniture designer’s studio to take a look behind the scenes.
09.23
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Portrait Of The Artist: Nathalie Kingdon
To prep for the opening of Tough Moment, Matthew’s new exhibition at our Mayfair shop, we visited the sculptor and furniture designer’s studio to take a look behind the scenes.
09.23
Sign Up For Updates
Words: Molly Isabella Smith
Translation: Lyla Lezghad