Exploring wood in new ways
- Steven developed a flexible wood product called WooWood
- He won the Prix Liliane Bettencourt pour l'intelligence de la main in 2017
- He set up his own business after studying cabinetmaking at École Boulle
Steven Leprizé’s father managed a museum of historical agricultural machinery, the highlight of which was a sawmill, made in 1880. The piece required continuous maintenance and restoration. Steven spent many years repairing the machines with his father, developing a deep passion for working with wood. He first studied carpentry, then focused on cabinetmaking with the intention of restoring furniture. During his studies, he discovered fine arts and a talent for sketching. This is the time when Steven realised he wanted to focus on creating furniture rather than restoring it. He went on to study at École Boulle in Paris, before creating ARCA Ébénisterie, his own cabinetmaking workshop, with other alumni of his school.
Interview
- Do you use any innovative techniques or materials in your work?
- I developed thermo-formable wood, inflatable wood and WooWood, a unique softwood made from rubber, wood and glue. My latest work, Combe Laval is a 2m-long moving fresco. Its flexible marquetry, crafted by Pierre Henri Beyssac, uses WooWood and responds to movement via sensors controlling servo motors. I have many more examples of innovation in my work and collaborations!
- How has your artistic style evolved?
- My experience has led me to simplify my creations to focus on the essential. Although I enjoy combining various materials in my projects, I now concentrate on one or two key materials, adopting a "less is more" approach. The materials I use, through their movement and strong identity, already give pieces a significant presence.
- How do you stay motivated and inspired in your work?
- I find inspiration in the details around me, especially nature. In 2024, I created a furniture collection inspired by the shapes and textures of rocks. Drawing is essential to my daily life, driving my search for new forms. Working with a talented and passionate team fuels my motivation. Recently, I have explored movement and how materials interact with sound waves.
- What role does sustainability play in your work?
- I am increasingly tracing the origin of my materials, driven by ecological concerns and industry demands. I use local wood, avoiding exotic species. Wood is renewable, regenerating much faster than minerals or metals. My BRUT collection honours this by staying close to the tree’s natural form and reducing energy use.
Steven Leprizé is a master artisan: he began his career in 2008 and he started teaching in 2011
Where
Steven Leprizé
