Black Fish (2024) Sculpture by Lionel Le Coq

Lionel Le Coq, a contemporary French sculptor, has dedicated his craft to the art of sculpting waves, viewing his work as a conduit for breathing new life into ancient wood. His affinity for wood traces back to his childhood spent in his father's carpentry workshop, where his passion was ignited. Several years ago, Le Coq acquired a precious stock of old wood, spanning from 1700 to 1970, which had naturally matured and dried for decades in the shelter of a hangar.

Raised and residing in Brittany, surrounded by the sea and its beaches, Le Coq draws inspiration from his coastal environment. He chose to center his artistic endeavors around sculpting waves—the undulating patterns of the sea's surface or the intricate formations left by sand at low tide.

Le Coq's reverence for wood deepens each day as he works with these boards, which serve as tangible witnesses to eras long past. His mission is to honor the inherent beauty of each piece of ancient wood, meticulously respecting its natural lines, knots, and branches. He considers himself a "wood smuggler," influenced by the philosophy of Alain Mailland, who believes that "nature is a reservoir of miracles."

In recent years, Le Coq's primary focus has been creating and selling large wall sculptures or totems crafted from century-old wood, predominantly Oak, Elm, Black Walnut, or Ash. His work has garnered recognition and appreciation worldwide, showcasing the timeless allure and enduring legacy of ancient wood through his masterful sculptural interpretations.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1962
• Artistic domains: Works by artists with a certified artist value, Works by professional artists,
• Groups: Certified Artists Professional Artist Contemporary French Artists