tendresse (2023) Sculpture by Stéphane Terret

Stéphane Terret, a contemporary French sculptor, embodies a profound connection with nature, forged in his childhood explorations of the bucolic landscapes of Berry, on the cusp of Limousin. Amidst the rustic charm of his upbringing, Terret found solace and inspiration in the harmonious coexistence of domesticated and wild creatures.

From an early age, Terret's inquisitive spirit and innate affinity for the natural world led him on journeys through the countryside, where he absorbed the nuances of animal behavior and the structural essence of his surroundings. These formative experiences laid the foundation for his artistic vision, imprinting upon him a deep appreciation for the intrinsic beauty of the organic world.

Driven by a passion for the tactile allure of wood—the myriad essences, fragrances, and textures—Terret embarked on a career as a carpenter, honing his craft and mastering the intricacies of spatial manipulation and precision craftsmanship. While his prowess as a woodworker garnered acclaim, Terret's restless soul yearned for a more expressive outlet, a canvas where he could breathe life into his boundless imagination.

With chainsaw in hand, Terret embarked on a transformative journey, carving out his niche as a sculptor extraordinaire. Each stroke of his tool is infused with the spirit of his subjects, capturing their essence in a symphony of raw emotion and unbridled vitality. Through his artistry, Terret conjures a menagerie of creatures, each bearing the indelible imprint of his intimate encounters with the natural world.

In Terret's hands, wood transcends its static form, yielding to his will as he sculpts intricate expressions of submission, violence, and tenderness. His creations—be it the attentive gaze of a horse, the eager anticipation of a dog, or the nurturing embrace of a cow—resonate with a palpable sense of authenticity, each piece a testament to Terret's profound understanding of his subjects.

Yet, amidst the primal fervor of his craft, there exists a delicate balance between strength and gentleness, brutality and grace. Here, the artist's hand yields to the whims of nature, allowing light and shadow to dance across the contours of his creations, imbuing them with an ethereal vitality that transcends the confines of the physical realm.

In experiencing Terret's work, one is invited into a realm where art and emotion intertwine, where the boundaries between creator and creation blur into obscurity. Through his art, Terret offers not merely a glimpse into the animal kingdom, but a reflection of the human experience itself—a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the boundless depths of the human soul.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1980
• Artistic domains: Works by professional artists,
• Groups: Professional Artist Contemporary French Artists