Interview

Written By Adelé Kotzé

Babar

Babar is a true jack of all trades, passionate about art, beautiful things and a lover of wood from a very young age. He lives in the heart of the Drôme and enjoys limitless landscapes and inspirations. It is with great pleasure that he presents to you his vision of woodworking through unique pieces entirely handmade. After studying and working with more than 10 years in industrial design, Babar also worked in design by creating his own brand, but going back to the roots was obvious, to return to his first love, woodworking in all its forms. He uses several species of wood such as oak, beech, plane tree, cedar, walnut and some exotic woods. ​His job is to bring out the beauty, emotion and warmth of these materials through curves and clean lines. ​ He hopes to interest, to make the art lover in you react, to move.

 

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I’m a wood sculptor based in the south of France, more precisely in the Drôme department. At the age of 40, I followed various professional paths through industrial design and design. However, it is in wood carving that I find my true artistic passion. Having lived in Africa for 7 years during my childhood, I was deeply influenced by the landscapes, cultures and vibrant colors of this continent. These experiences have nourished my artistic sensibility and have influenced my work in profound and lasting ways. I have always been attracted to art in all its forms. My early days in industrial design taught me an eye for detail and precision, skills that I then merged with my creativity as I explored the field of product design. I decided to return to my artistic roots by devoting myself to wood carving, this love of the material passed on by my father from my very young age.”

What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?

“My art is not anchored in a social or political sector but above all, a return to the fundamental and to what surrounds us. Every piece I create is a tribute to nature. Inspired by landscapes, curves and movements, I work with wood to extract its natural beauty and unique textures. My sculptures, whether abstract or figurative, are unique expressions of this intimate connection between man and nature.”

Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?

“My work includes a planning part with a reflection on themes, shapes and essences through sketches. However, wood remains a living material that delivers its secrets as the work we bring to it. This also implies an element of improvisation and adaptation.”

“My sculptures, whether abstract or figurative, are unique expressions of this intimate connection between man and nature.”

Are there any art world trends you are following?

“I am attentive to certain current trends that resonate with my work. The return to craftsmanship and authenticity, where the emphasis is on manual work and natural materials. Wood, as a noble and living material, finds a central place in this connection between nature and traditions. I am inspired by the sustainable art movement, where the provenance of the materials and the environmental impact of the work are taken into consideration. I also like the unusual, what has not been seen or hardly seen, the new. It's not only the trends that I follow but above all artists with common values and in a dynamism/optics similar to mine also allowing us to exchange on our beautiful moments as well as those a little more complicated.”

What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?

“I always start by drawing sketches until I get the shape or movement I want. Then, comes the important choice of the type of wood to be worked with according to the desired shapes, the colours and the rendering of the grains. As for the realization, all the steps are done by hand with a perfect mastery of cutting, digging, sanding and finishing tools. Each work becomes unique, requiring several days or even a few weeks of work I impose a flawless finish on myself in order to sublimate this noble material.”

 What does your art mean to you?

“It is often difficult for me to explain what the culmination of this work produces. It is both a complete satisfaction once the work is finished, knowing that no other will be identical. It's also a communion between the material and me because I take real pleasure in working on my works. Wood gives off fragrances, energy, but also a soothing sensation. The warmth and natural tones create a comforting atmosphere.”

What’s your favourite artwork and why?

“One of my favorite works is called "Surmersion," it represents a real exchange between raw material and the fluidity of forms. Carved from oak, this piece features undulating curves that evoke the movement of water, as if the surface of the wood were shaped by the waves. This plateau, perceived as rigid and solid, suddenly seems to be transformed under the effect of an invisible force. This contrast between wood and the lightness of forms invites a reflection on the power of nature and the ability of art to capture fleeting sensations. This work is also an exploration of textures and the play of light. The shadows and reflections vary depending on the lighting, giving the work an almost lively dynamic.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“Although I have not yet done any major exhibitions, I have participated in several artistic events that have been very rewarding. One of the most impactful was a group exhibition in a space for emerging artists, where I was able to show my work to a wider audience and receive valuable feedback. I also exhibited in local galleries, which allowed me to create direct connections with visitors. These experiences have been important milestones in my artistic journey, and I look forward to sharing my work in even wider contexts in the future.”

 
Adelé Kotzé
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