I love the contrast between the object and the properties of paper as a material. I create collections full of poetry and humor, sculptures that are always unique.
LAURENCE LEHEL
Laurence Lehel
Paper sculptor, La Frette-sur-Seine (95)
Laurence tells us about the "fascinating fusion" that gave rise to her artistic expression
Tell us your story, how did you find your calling?
Trained at the Beaux-Arts in Angers and the Arts Décoratifs in Paris, my artistic journey is a fascinating fusion of my background and experiences. After a career as a textile designer in the fashion industry, working with renowned houses like Chloé and Yves Saint Laurent, I now sculpt paper—this humble and fragile material that transforms into something solid and enduring.
How would you describe your style and your artistic approach in a few words?
I use paper to create unique works and everyday objects. I love the contrast between the object and the properties of the paper material. I create collections full of poetry and humor, with sculptures that are always unique.
What themes or subjects inspire you the most in your work?
I like working with everyday objects: shoes, clothes, boxing gloves… I am also interested in the representation of the "totem animal" in our daily life.
How do you work?
My studio is at home. It is integrated into the house because I need to see my sculptures regularly while I am working on them. I don't go to the studio; I live in it!
Do you have a specific technique or unique expertise? Without giving away all your secrets, have you developed your own methods and techniques?
My sculptures are made of newspaper using the papier-mâché technique. Newspaper, glue, and that's it. I don't use wire mesh because I like my sculptures to be "pure paper."
Tell us about your daily life, your constraints, your joys, your successes…
When I am not sculpting, I teach classes at a studio in Paris and visit many museums, exhibitions, galleries…
