Art is a very personal discipline, influenced by a multitude of movements, genres, and media.
Often associated with a very specific style, which is often considered "unique" to him, the artist must find his place in a varied, rich and constantly changing universe.
In the artistic world, some artists stand out by offering extraordinary works, presenting an art form that can be linked to a movement or style, but which, by some small something, distinguishes itself from the others.
We spoke with Mr. Pascal Poirot, an Alsatian, resident of the Villé valley and, above all, a visual artist!
Pascal's art is very unique. Varied, mixed, original, classical, modern… Everything seems to come together to offer colorful, dynamic works full of the richness of diverse artistic universes, yet exuding a kind of peace and wisdom!
Pascal's work could be considered a unifier and federator of modern artistic movements! But I believe the most important thing is to remember that a work of art, and art in general, will not be perceived in the same way by different people!
So we're off now to meet Pascal to ask him questions about his work, his life, and to understand what HIS vision of art is!
Hello Pascal,
Can you start by telling us who you are?
You are now a resident of the Villé Valley since you live and work in Neuve-Eglise. Why did you choose to live in the Valley? Does this place inspire you?
Born in Strasbourg where I studied visual arts and art history, I discovered the valley with Yves Siffer and other friends with the association "Hors-cadre" which presented contemporary art in villages, in Neubois and elsewhere and organized visits to workshops in "Middle Alsace" mainly in the 90s.
The valley is undeniably a captivating and extraordinary place, both for its heritage and for the dynamism of its inhabitants, most of whom are aware that human activity can coexist with environmental protection and the passing on of knowledge. It is, of course, an inspiring and magnificent place.
Pascal, how does one become an artist?
You don't become an artist, it's people who stick that label on you one day, there's no more overused term.
Did you always want to make a living from painting, or did it just happen to you by chance?
I have indeed been painting diligently for a long time, and I had this idea of making it my profession. My father wasn't too keen on the idea…
What is your educational background and what training have you undertaken?
Forestry worker, fisherman's brewery to buy my moped, University of Strasbourg, a bit of philosophy.
I spent some time looking at your paintings! In all objectivity, I really like your work simply because it inspires me with change and diversity!
Your cabins, for example! These creations are very similar, yet they each offer a different feeling when you look at them. This feeling is even stronger in your "Viewpoint and Refuge" series! Each piece offers a journey into a different imaginary world!
Can you tell us a little about your vision and what you want to convey in your work?
Painting isn't necessarily an intellectual pursuit. On the contrary, I try to shed too much know-how or preconceived notions; I may have a method, but I'm not trying to convey anything. If we can progress in this profession, it's by letting go.
It is the gaze of others that sheds light on my work.
Do you paint for yourself, to give yourself pleasure and because you find it beautiful, with the idea "I like it, that's the main thing, and if others like it, all the better!" or is it the complete opposite, do you create primarily to please others?
That's an interesting question; I believe that the practice of painting engages in various dialogues: with oneself, with others, with life, which is probably celebrated in passing.
How do you work?
What artistic techniques do you like and use most often? Painting, engraving?
Painting, but within painting there can be various techniques: dripping, sanding, engraving, printing, drips, etc…
And what about your supports? I think I've seen entire notebooks of your paintings?
Sketchbooks, painted books, paintings on wood or canvas.
How would you describe "your art" and is there a movement that defines you or at least corresponds to you?
In the early 80s when I started exhibiting, there was talk of "New Figuration," a figuration inspired by illustration, comics, cinema; sometimes the line with abstract or conceptual art becomes less pronounced. I would rather be "figurative," but simply copying the external appearance of the world is very poor.
What is it in a work of art that you come across that will make you stop and, consequently, engage and please you?
I never know in advance, ugly can sometimes be beautiful.
Are you attached to a specific artistic style or movement?
I really like the photo
Pascal, who is your favorite artist? Who is the one whose works you like and who speaks to you?
I would say David Hockney and also Peter Doig
I'll ask you a series of questions and you'll try to answer them without thinking. (or not too much :-) )
A color? Red
A material? Wood
A sound? the wind
A place? The salt shaker
A person? Jocker
I also understood that nature was very important to you and that you were committed to its protection.
Are you involved in protecting our environment, and if so, how?
We are part of nature, what is happening now will intensify, some would like even more short-term profits, but in the end, no one will benefit.
As Chirac said in his PR stunt, "The house is burning down and we're looking the other way."
It's difficult to fight against all of this; individually we try, and collectively, the elected officials and politicians here in the green valley (more PR) have grasped the situation, I'm willing to believe, and some have for a long time. Yet it seems insignificant.
I must admit that this video in which I saw you evokes a feeling of happiness, serenity, and a certain tranquility. Is the daily life of an artist always like this, or is making a living from one's art today far from easy and demanding constant effort?
Happiness requires attention and constant effort; you always have to chase after it…
Where can we see your work? At the workshop
Pascal, if I'm not mistaken, you work and exhibit internationally! Where have your works already been exhibited?
Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Czech Republic.
What are you most proud of, artistically or otherwise, in what you have already accomplished?
I believe it is the creation and installation of twenty paintings in the temple of Abreschviller (57)
Do you have an artistic dream? Something you'd like to achieve but that's technically or financially difficult?
I have dreams that cost nothing.
What message would you like to convey to the inhabitants of the valley to encourage them towards art, and especially to encourage them to discover new forms of art?
I think that screens and tablets can inspire people to go to museums, and then to go to the open studios at the end of May to see the artists in their studios.
More information about open workshops can be found on the website: https://ateliers-ouverts.net/ateliers/latelier-perche/
We thank you for your time and I suggest we leave you with the words of Alain Baschung's song.
Best of luck and see you soon!
Only the dog remembers
Only the dog is waiting for you
It's a shame he lived such a short time.
The palm is of this anvil
Where everything is drawn
And the star and the moon
And the heart of the marshes
All the lines drawn
They roll for solitude
This star-studded belly
Lacking habits
Only the dog remembers
Only the dog is waiting for us
It's a shame he lived such a short time.
Twisted type
Feverish body
In the hands of a romance plot
Promised to the country dances
At the risky junctions
He taunts the sirens.
They sing farewells to them
Felt-tip pen over the eyes
Later when they return
Only the dog remembers
Only the dog is waiting for them
It's a shame he lived such a short time.
This is the last star
That I see light up
This is the last gasp
That I hear myself pushing
Let someone carry me, let someone put me in my place
Give me something to warm up
One last room
That I see passing by
One by one, these faces
Who would I have mattered to?
But time may be ticking away
In the middle of the room
Only a dog is looking at me
Only the dog remembers
Only the dog is waiting for us
It's a shame he lived such a short time.