Design All-rounder

We speak to Emilie Bonaventure who wears many hats for all seasons – a set designer, a creative director, a consultant, a French ceramics expert and founder of Be-attitude Studio

Have you always known that art and design is the career path for you?

My mother introduced me to forms and materials when I was a child and I quickly got interested in art and design since then. It only grew stronger after I graduated from L’ecole du Louvre and started to work for antique dealer Antoine Broccardo. I consider him my mentor who introduced me to the world of European antiques and design of the 20th century, as well as to the necessity of setting up a dialogue between the objects themselves and their environment.

Do you remember what were the first influences that have led you to this creative journey?

The beautiful lights in the Var, France, which I witnessed in 1987, became my source of interest for painting, and the artists of the 20th century. In fact, this was the topic of my research when I studied at L’ecole du Louvre. Later on, my encounters with Antoine Broccardo, Chahan Minassian and Jacques Lacoste all strongly influenced my career choice. They are important to me, like my guardian angels as they put their trust in me to express my passion for objects and furniture, from arts and craft to contemporary design.

How would you define creativity?

That is a tough one. I like the idea that creativity is a flow that carries all inner aspects of your creative personality, from your influences, memories and inspirations, culture and sensibility, to your personal tastes and inclinations. The tricky part though, is to get in connection with it.

As an artist, as well as a designer, what are the words you live by?

Love, of course. You must love your project and the people you work with to make it a success. Joy then becomes a fortunate result, as well as a prerequisite to make the project come true. And remember dedication. You never stop being creative. I always keep in mind the projects I am working on. Every occasion of life can be inspirational and brings a new element to your project.