paul mathieu

Paul pictured in the RALPH PUCCI Sculpture Studio with the DEE Coffee Table

French designer Paul Mathieu unveiled “Still Motion” at RALPH PUCCI International in January 2019, an exhibition that represents the evolution of his work not only as a designer, but also as an artist.

"Still Motion” captures the flexibility, delicacy and yet inherent strength of two different materials: age-old bronze and PUCCI’s proprietary Plasterglass. "These new pieces are inspired by my late father's sculptures which surrounded him in his workshop in the French countryside where I would pass my time watching him work,” says Paul. This “motionless development” signifies a moment in the trajectory of movement. Paul was eager to work in the RALPH PUCCI Sculpting Studio developing three designs—an outdoor friendly chair and coffee table, and a standing lamp—named after female jazz greats: Ella Fitzgerald, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Grace Jones. Paul explains, “Once the singer has stopped performing, the music they created keeps going inside and along with us.” Much like the act of sculpting with its beautiful final results.

Following the debut of “Still Motion” at RALPH PUCCI International, selections from the exhibition traveled to Château La Coste in Provence, France. Owner Patrick McKillen expanded the concept of “Still Motion” to include a retrospective of Paul’s work from the last decade, comprised of over forty pieces of furniture, lighting, sculpture and paintings.

Ralph Pucci asked Paul to create a mural for “The Wall” in the New York gallery to compliment the exhibition. Paul gives us insight into his creative process below.

what is the inspiration for the mural?

Flying, flowing, the instant of departure. This moment captured in still motion

How did you create the mural?

I used acrylic paint straight from the can. I wanted something liquid and thick at the same time, that could escape my control, become its own expression and make me discover other possibilities while I let myself be guided by a temporary trance.

How is painting different from designing furniture or is it the same creative process?

In painting I connect with the free flow of my hand on the paper. This is also true when I design, but with more control and guidance from my experience and knowledge. It becomes a series of temporary moments from drawing to meeting and intervention with the different persons involved, from the technical drawings to manufacturers to the gallery to the client where it will come to life