Elsa Sahal for Camille Fournet
Since its acquisition in 1994 by Jean-Luc Déchery, Maison Camille Fournet (founded in 1945 in Picardy) has been involved in the development of artisanal know-how in the field of hand-stitched leather upholstery, handbags and custom-made watchbands. The Maison is constantly guided by contemporary inspirations, and from the outset Déchery’s wife has taken a passionate interest in the brand. Both are art lovers, and together they have developed a collection, making art become an integral part of their business.
Guided by a shared passion for contemporary arts, the couple invites artists for six-month residencies, during which they are offered all the resources required to invent work that fully reflects the spirit of Maison Camille Fournet. The resulting creations are then presented from March 21 to September 21, or September 21 to March 21. Why these dates? Because they correspond to the Spring and Autumn Equinoxes, the exact moments when the sun crosses the celestial equator, and when the lengths of day and night are equal. How are the artists selected? “For us, it’s about putting the spotlight on an artist whose work we appreciate, to show to others what it is that makes their approach so interesting,” says Jean-Luc Déchery. For this Equinox 2, the artist is Elsa Sahal. “We’ve been following her work for a long time. We’re were intrigued by her use of a favorite material, ceramics, and when she told us she had been hoping for a long time to create a piece combining leather with ceramics, the invitation became a must! The artisans of Manufacture Camille Fournier have learned how to adapt their techniques to the artist’s requirements. Bringing these two worlds together, which share the factor of being shaped by hand, has triggered a fascinating reciprocity,” Déchery points out. “The works of art we support will be taken abroad, thanks to the international reach of our Maison. Several of them will also appear in exhibitions at our factory. From here, the next step would be to transform our factory, facilities, and boutiques into exhibition spaces... perhaps that day will come,” says Françoise Déchery.
“Acrobat”, by Elsa Sahal, from March 21 to September 20 at the Camille Fournet boutique, 5 Rue Cambon, Paris (1er).