ArtTour International Magazine
Lawrence R. Armstrong
2021
When viewing one of Jean Jacques Porret’s sculptures, the human form seems to leap out at the viewer. Jean-Jacques describes this movement as “rhythm in space.” Likewise, Porret said of his artistic method and vision, “I work without any preconceived idea…(I) continue instinctively, with one shape leading to the next, until the figure is
simply rhythm in space”.
Where it all started: Born into a family of art and antique collectors in Switzerland, art was in Porret’s blood from the moment he was born. As soon as his hands were able, he began carving wood at the age of 6. That propelled him forward, finished his engineering degree, and traveled to Chicago, traveling to the United States to begin
his journey as an engineer and Artist.
1979
Honing his technique and growing his bronze collection, Porret began to showcase his work. His first opportunity to be featured was a group exhibition in the Peter Miller Gallery in Chicago, IL.
1985
As Porret’s name and work gained notoriety, so did his exposure. Benjamin Beattie Gallery jumped on the opportunity to be the first to give Porret a solo exhibition to showcase his incredible bronze sculptors created by “The Lost Wax Process.” “Lost wax is a slow multi-step process that has endured only because of the results…knowing that my bronze sculptures will outlive me provides a comforting whiff of immortality. I believe everyone wants to leave something behind.” Jean Jacques Porret
1985 - 2018
Over the next 33 years, Porret’s work would be featured in over 46 gallery shows, both solo and group exhibitions. Not only was his work being seen all over the world, but he also received many awards and recognition, including RMG Artist of the Year in 2016!