Antonin Anzil

The delicacy of paper

• Antonin has developed his own paper sculpting technique
• He specialises in bas-reliefs
• He used to work as a graphic designer

Antonin Anzil takes us on a poetic journey through his bas-reliefs. By means of a drypoint, an engraving tool, and his meticulous gesture, he brings imaginary landscapes to life in paper, playing subtly with light and textures. Invented cartography, abstract motifs: it is up to the viewer to let their imagination guide them. A meeting point between engraving and sculpture, Antonin relies on his artistic education to develop his own approach to paper. After graduating from the European School of Visual Arts in Poitiers, and from the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, he worked for several years as a graphic designer for the Francis Kurkdjian Perfume House.

Interview

©Nathalie Baetens

©Nathalie Baetens

Did you learn from a master?

As a child, I practised drawing for more than 10 years in the classes of the engraver François Verdier. It was during this period that I became familiar with the engraving tools and the papers that I still use today, in a slightly different way. I also acquired a taste for a certain abstraction.

When and how did you start your artistic practice?

I invented my technique in 2009 during my studies at the School of Decorative Arts but it was in 2017 that I really founded the workshop. Before that, a few exhibitions and meetings with gallery owners in France and abroad confirmed my decision.

How does your work relate to territory?

Landscapes seen from the sky and maps are inexhaustible sources of inspiration for my work. This notion of territory is at the origin of many of my creations, even if I free myself from it with great freedom to create imaginary and abstract works.

What are your specialisations?

My speciality is mainly based on my artistic technique. But human and social skills are also necessary, especially for custom projects with architects, interior designers, private clients, but also collaborations with brands and other artists.

Antonin Anzil is a rising star: he began his career in 2017

Works

©A.ANZIL

©A.ANZIL

©A.ANZIL

©A.ANZIL

©A.ANZIL

Where