Matissette (n°204) (2023) Sculpture by Didier Fournier

Didier Fournier, a contemporary French sculptor, transitioned from a career in science to pursue his passion for bronze sculpture upon the guidance of Kossy Traore, an African sculptor from Burkina Faso. Retired from his scientific pursuits, Fournier embarked on his sculptural journey, drawing inspiration and knowledge from Traore's expertise.

In 2018, Fournier undertook an internship in the Cévennes, and subsequently, he deepened his skills at the Taba Taba artistic center in Bobo Dioulasso. His sculptural process begins with the creation of a beeswax model, shaped and sculpted with a knife. Following this, he molds the piece in clay reinforced with fibers to prevent cracking. The crucial step of dewaxing, accomplished by heating the pieces over a wood fire, lends its name to the "lost wax" technique—although the wax is largely recovered and recycled.

Under the guidance of Kossy Traore, Fournier then witnesses the pouring of metal into the prepared mold, using either bronze, recycled brass from plumbing elements, or a combination of both metals. After cooling, the mold is broken to unveil the sculpted form. The ensuing process involves polishing and, if necessary, welding. The piece is then patinated, undergoing a chemical alteration of its surface to achieve a specific coloration. Finally, the completed sculpture is waxed or lacquered and securely affixed to its designated support.

Didier Fournier's artistic journey reflects not only a transition from the scientific realm but also a dedicated immersion into the intricate and traditional "lost wax" technique, guided by the expertise of Kossy Traore, resulting in unique and finely crafted bronze sculptures.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1951
• Artistic domains: Works by professional artists,
• Groups: Professional Artist Contemporary French Artists