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Cyriaque Ambroise
Cyriaque Ambroise is a French artist who embraces the philosophy of simple living. He works between London, Paris and the Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy, France. From his open-air studios, he creates unique objects and sculptural pieces, using natural materials, which he sources locally and ethically. Fallen branches and trunks, foraged in forests and parks constitute his main material, which he instinctively and rhythmically carves. As a tea enthusiast, Cyriaque is inspired by wabi-cha and creates a collection of objects dedicated to the Japanese ceremony every year, for the autumn equinox.
Maker's Story
Cyriaque Ambroise is a French artist who embraces the philosophy of simple living. He works between London, Paris and the Morvan Regional Natural Park in Burgundy, France. From his open-air studios, he creates unique objects and sculptural pieces, using natural materials, which he sources locally and ethically. Fallen branches and trunks, foraged in forests and parks constitute his main material, which he instinctively and rhythmically carves. As a tea enthusiast, Cyriaque is inspired by wabi-cha and creates a collection of objects dedicated to the Japanese ceremony every year, for the autumn equinox.
THE PROCESS
Cyriaque refuses the use of machines and only uses simple hand tools - their daily use becoming a meditative practice. Without formal training, he honed his skills through the teachings of other artists and master craftsmen. Cyriaque’s work is slow, contemplative and measured, rooted in the natural rhythm of the seasons. His sensitive artworks are a reflection of his slow way of living and close relationship to nature.
Q&A
1. What motivates you to make?
I embrace the simple living philosophy and aim to create sensitive and delicate pieces with soul. Creating is a way of life for me - an everyday quest to appreciate the beauty of impermanent and modest things. Through my work, I hope to share my vision of natural beauty in simplicity.
2. What and/or who are you most inspired or influenced by?
I climb trees and meditate in their canopy to find inspiration in nature. I'm also influenced by Japanese aesthetics, especially the ritual of the traditional tea ceremony. My work reflects my emotional responses to the sensations that surround me, from the shadow of the foliage undulating in a gentle breeze to the sound of falling rain.
3. What is your unique approach to your craft, and how have you honed your skills?
I work in an open-air studio, which allows me to make deep connections with the elements and helps to keep my mind free from fixed thoughts or emotions, thus remaining open to everything. As a gesture aesthete, I refuse the use of machines and only use simple hand tools - over the years, their daily use has become a meditative practice. For me, it’s all about following the seasons and taking the time to do things according to the natural rhythm of the elements. Without academic training, I learned my craft through the advice of other artists and master craftsmen. So on this long art and craft journey, I'll always be an apprentice.
4. What is your defining or proudest moment as a maker so far?
Not one thing in particular. Knowing that people will cherish, use and look at my pieces means the most to me because they will not only own an object but a little part of my life.
5. What is your dream project?
To find a place away from the cares of the world to build my hermitage. A space in harmony with nature, to contemplate, meditate and create. A retreat to treasure the only thing we really own: time.
To be kept informed about new collections from Cyriaque Ambroise, please email [email protected]
ALL PRODUCTS
