Poetry made of wood
White, curved wood, formally reminiscent of a sail; vessels with structures and patterns never before seen in wood - the creations of French craftsman Maxime Perrolle are thoroughly unique and poetic. Traditional woodturning techniques meet a contemporary aesthetic that blurs the boundaries between craft and art.
The fascination for the material can be seen in Maxime Perrolle's works: «Originally, it was my love for trees, for these silent giants, that brought me to my profession», the creative Frenchman explains in conversation with us. It was the serenity they radiate and the testimony of time they embody that captivates him.
The trained carpenter and sculptor discovered his true vocation a few years ago when he was allowed to look over the shoulders of a wood turner friend, which ignited his love of turned objects: the turning of the chip, the discovery of the wooden rings and the imprint of time, the scents that are revealed – Perrolle tells stories with his creations. All of them are unique.
Maxime Perrolle at work on the lathe. (Picture: Alex Gallosi)
The artist and his element. (Picture: Alex Gallosi)
«In my experimental work, I take a contemporary approach that respects the traditional values of the craft. I play with texture effects, with curves, sculptural elements and different shades of colour created by natural pigments or even fire», the artisan explains his creative process. This ancient craft is still used almost exclusively in furniture making; Perrolle is therefore one of the very few people in the world who turn works of art and objects from wood.
«Wood is a living material. I try to appreciate and show its character through my work», the artist explains his respect for the processed raw material. He also demonstrates this by using almost exclusively French hardwoods such as oak and ash.
The work «Erosion» is on display in our Zurich showroom.
Shapes and patterns are Maxime Perrole's forte.
In addition to smaller objects, Maxime Perrolle also works on large-format works such as wall panels reminiscent of monoliths or totems. He has already received several awards for his work and his works - all of them unique – can be seen at trade fairs such as Maison & Object as well as at various exhibitions.
Zingg-Lamprecht offers the exceptional creations exclusively throughout Switzerland. Discover the poetic pieces in our showrooms and embark on a journey through the time of the processed trees and also feel the fascination for the material wood.
Text by Christina Noli
When the chips fly, the rings show in the wood and stories are decoded... (Image: Alex Gallosi)
Formal masterpiece: «Seed» in our Zurich showroom.