Rondeurs piquantes (2012) Sculpture by Francis Da Cunha (frenchcraft)

Francis da Cunha is a contemporary French artist known for reinventing the use of plaster in his art. His unique creations, crafted for prestigious clients like Hermès Paris, luxury hotels, and private collectors, have elevated plaster into a fine art medium. While studying interior architecture, da Cunha became fascinated by this often-overlooked material, traditionally confined to plasterwork. He envisioned a new artistic destiny for it.

To perfect his craft, da Cunha collaborated with professionals and experimented with various techniques. He moved beyond traditional plaster, discovering polyester and fiber plasters, and developed his own mixtures to achieve a texture as smooth as biscuit. He further explored patinas and colors, creating his own molds and prototypes. His intricate designs, such as mirrors adorned with oversized shells and ginkgo biloba leaves, showcase his attention to detail. One of his signature works, a mirror featuring fantastical arums, caught the eye of renowned interior designer Leila Menchari at the Maison et Objet show in 2021.

Menchari, the creative force behind Hermès' iconic window displays, became a mentor and collaborator for da Cunha, guiding him towards more sculptural forms. Together, they created striking works inspired by nature and the sea, including giant frames for scarves, sculptural busts, and oversized fans for the windows of Hermès' Faubourg St Honoré store.

Da Cunha’s work extends beyond Hermès, with commissions for Méridiens hotels, the Réunion des musées Nationaux, and Neiman Marcus, as well as collaborations with haute couture designers. He has exhibited his work at the Carrousel du Louvre, Maison et Objet, and various art galleries, and participated in prestigious events like the Journées des Métiers d'Art and the Grand Prix de la Création de la Ville de Paris. Through his innovative approach, Francis da Cunha has transformed plaster into a sophisticated medium of artistic expression.

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