Hubert le Gall: Maison et Objet
An exclusive tour behind the scenes of Atelier Hubert le Gall in Montmartre, Paris during Maison et Objet.
Hidden away behind an unsuspecting facade in Montmartre, Paris is the atelier of self-taught designer Hubert le Gall, whose contemporary works are exhibited and located within some of the most exciting galleries across the globe. Once visitors step through the door, located just a stone's throw from Montmartre Cemetry, a new world is revealed, a secret village is hidden behind the walls of the surrounding structures, hosting gardens, workshops, sculptures and of course, Hubert le Gall's studio where incredible designs come to life.
Working with a close-knit team of four in his studio on a range of different projects, le Gall blurs the boundaries between sculpture, furniture design and art. Pieces are often formed from luxurious materials, creating playful and unusual shapes of oversized proportions, a nod to the freedom and fun of childhood.
Exploring the main workshop, guests had a fascinating insight into the tools, craft and inspiration of le Gall's work. A treasure trove of objects line the paint-splattered shelving, from model hands and skull-shapes vessels to paintbrushes and offcuts of wood. Walking around the studio, visitors get a real sense of energy, passion and creation.
Stepping out from the workshop and studio and directed to another area on-site, guests were taken to the storage facility and showroom where some of le Gall's latest creations have been completed, almost ready to make their way to their new homes. Surrounded by whimsical furniture and object designs in bronze, wood, resin, steel, aluminium and more, it can almost be likened to Alice in Wonderland as she enters a strange and unknown world, full of magical and intriguing characters.
The furniture and object designs make the observer want to engage, walk around it in curiosity to discover more about the object, learn its story or even create one for it themselves.
As the tour came to an end, guests had one last opportunity to walk around the hidden gardens to absorb as much of this fascinating world as possible. Upon reflection, the location is the perfect place for le Gall's creations to be conceived and brought to life. This hidden retreat behind an unexpecting facade feels like the only place that one can truly experiment and create to your heart's desire, unobstructed by the fast pace and regulations of the city that surrounds.