An Ecological Sculptor

Celine Chouvenc began molding clay at six years old, when she began to participate in clay molding workshops. Her participation continued for the next 20 years. She studied fine arts at St-Etienne University.

It was during her university studies that she began to work with paper. “I needed to be more productive, but I could not afford to buy an oven for clay sculptures,” she remembers. “I decided to use paper to make my sculptures because it required fewer materials.”

Her materials of choice include newspaper, paper glue, tape, small modeling tools, and metal pieces for the base. Although she uses simple sculpting materials, each of Celine’s sculptures require at least one month to complete. “The most difficult is the face—shaping accurate proportions and realistic expressions. It is multi-step work, very meticulous and more complex than clay,” she explains.

Working every day in her studio, Celine says her process typically involves beginning with paper tape. “I don’t draw my sculpture before starting creation. I imagine them. I try to start two at the same time to respect the drying time.”

Celine shares that over time, her work has become more introspective. “My emotion guides my work, along with the feminist movement and the modern vision of Medusa.” She adds that she is also inspired by knotting, afro hairstyles, fashion, and textile design.

Celine finds satisfaction in seeing her sculptures develop from such a simplistic state, sharing that she is still amazed at the infinite potential of paper. “I’m also proud of the ecological aspect of my work. I’m a newspapers recycler. But the most gratifying thing is that I’m living from my passion for the last three years,” Celine says.

She encourages all emerging artists to “be patient, persevere, and work hard.”

To see more of Celine’s work, follow her on Instagram: @celinechouvenc.