Jean-Baptiste Saint-Criq

CercuS

Straw marquetry maker

©Laurent Barranco

©Johanna Jardin, Pixcity

©Laurent Barranco

Inlaying marquetry with straw and invention

Jean-Baptiste has refined the Cercus method of marquetry
Made to measure projects are at the heart of his craftsmanship
He graduated with a Métiers d’Arts diploma

Jean-Baptiste Saint-Criq is mastering the art of straw marquetry. After studying cabinet making for several years, he became passionate for this careful handcraft. Through learning the traditional methods, the young artisan has started to challenge age old conventions to innovate and add his own twist. Jean-Baptiste has developed a unique technique, Cercus marquetry, which involves playing with different superimpositions of straw layers, in different colours, patterns and rhythms. Made to measure, his decorative creations present a colourful and contemporary graphic design. Jean-Baptiste’s unique pieces are of great interest to decorators and interior architects, as well as to major luxury houses.

Interview

©Johanna Jardin, Pixcity

©Johanna Jardin, Pixcity

Could you explain why you were drawn to straw marquetry?: Above all, I think it is the pleasure of transforming the material. Gestures, techniques, smells – these are things that drive me and excite me. Since I finished high school, I have tried to develop my personal touch in marquetry. I take great pleasure in surpassing all its limits.
When and how did you really start?: In my last year of training, we created a collective, l'Atelier Folie Douce, with some friends. We were a group of artists, designers and craftsmen, who shared an atelier in Toulouse and developed our crafts. At that time, I also worked for various carpentry companies, and for Airbus Corporate Jet Centre.
In what way is your craft linked to where you work?: The materials comes from the fields around me in Saône et Loire. It is cultivated, mowed, selected and prepared before arriving at my workshop. I have always created a network around Toulouse with different artists, craftsmen, companies and individuals in a personal and professional approach.
During those years, did you learn from a master?: I discovered Georges Vriz, a craftsman who created his own technique in marquetry. I was sensitive to his approach and all the emotion he expresses through his art, he became a mentor to me. Restricted by the specific techniques of marquetry, he pushed back the limits of this craft.

Jean-Baptiste Saint-Criq is an expert artisan he began his career in 2010