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“I try to preserve a child’s imagination, curiosity and open-mindedness, to facilitate the inspiration essential to my work.”
Unleashing Creativity: Matt Roussel’s Multifaceted Artistic Process
Matt Roussel is a skilled artist from the south of France who has been freelancing since 1991. Throughout his illustrious career, Roussel has specialized in creating captivating illustrations for various industries such as press, advertising, and publishing.
In 2003, Roussel distinguished himself as the first illustrator in France to employ 3D illustration techniques in a children’s book, notably with the publication of “Angelman Edition Sarbacane.” Alongside his creative pursuits, he has raised three children with his wife Nathalie Tousnakhoff, an accomplished painter in her own right. Together, they have embarked on numerous travels across Asia, Australia, North America, and Europe, exploring the world as a tight-knit family.
As the years passed, Roussel gradually grew weary of working exclusively with computers. Inspired by a transformative journey to Mongolia, he rekindled his passion for traditional artistic mediums, such as woodcuts and ceramics. Consequently, he has refined his unique style, which he aptly describes as “wood engraved painted.”
Roussel’s extensive experience as an illustrator spanning more than two decades, coupled with his diverse and inspiring travels, has profoundly influenced his imagination and the distinct style of his artistic creations. His personal and professional experiences continue to enrich his work, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.
Artistic Narratives: The Mythical World of Matt Roussel’s Prints and Painted Woodcuts
Matt Roussel really is a multifaceted artist: he produces a diverse range of artwork that includes prints, ceramics crafted through the Raku technique, and painted woodcuts. In his creative process, Roussel begins by sketching directly onto the chosen medium, then deftly manipulates a gouge to generate markings reminiscent of brushstrokes. Although he frequently creates black-and-white multiples from these engravings, the artist has also started incorporating acrylic paint into the reliefs, transforming them into standalone original pieces.
Drawing inspiration from mythology and ancient motifs, Roussel is captivated by the connections between culture and nature. His work encompasses a variety of elements, such as mountains, clouds, plants, and animals, weaving them together to narrate or symbolize stories. Through his art, Roussel offers viewers a glimpse into a fantastical realm, urging them to appreciate the beauty of the world from this unique perspective.
Among his oeuvre, Roussel takes particular pride in works like “Flower Fish,” “Mountains,” and “Clouds Cats.” However, he acknowledges the potential danger of becoming overly satisfied with his creations, as this may lead to stagnation and a repetitive creative comfort. Instead, Roussel values the power of continuous exploration and perpetual questioning in driving artistic growth. In conclusion, the artist affirms that true satisfaction can only be found in the anticipation of his next masterpiece.
The Evolution of Matt Roussel’s Artistic Style: Mediums and Inspiration
Over the years, Matt Roussel’s artistic style has evolved not only in terms of its aesthetic, but also in relation to the various creative media he has employed. The distinct visual elements of his work are influenced by the medium in which he operates. For instance, when Roussel produced 3D illustrations utilizing computer-generated imagery (CGI), he would often adopt a cartoonish or realistic style based on the specific project requirements.
In contrast, when working with engravings, Roussel demonstrates a consistent, unique style, characterized by the skillful use of hatching to create intricate shades of gray. When it comes to his painted woodcuts, he tends to favor gentle hues, occasionally opting for more vibrant colors to achieve a desired effect. Ultimately, it can be said that the artist’s style is influenced more by the subject matter than the passage of time.
Roussel’s creative space is situated within a shared workshop that houses 23 other artists and craftsmen, including ceramists, painters, graphic designers, motion designers, leather artisans, and even a florist. Each individual maintains their own workspace, fostering an environment that encourages collaboration, exchange of ideas, and a balanced atmosphere essential to Roussel’s creative process.
While he is content in his current workspace, if asked to envision his ideal studio, Roussel would describe a spacious workshop situated in a historic stone building atop a hill, overlooking a majestic mountain range. Surrounded by the company of fellow artists, he would draw inspiration from the breathtaking landscape and the camaraderie of his creative peers.
Matt Roussel’s Dream Studio: A Collaborative and Scenic Haven for Artistic Growth
Matt Roussel’s creative inspiration is derived from a myriad of sources, including his personal travels, the literature he immerses himself in, and the artwork of fellow artists he encounters throughout his journey. The artist harbors a deep-rooted fascination with Asia, as well as the natural world, which he believes possesses significant restorative qualities for one’s inner equilibrium. In an increasingly urbanized society, Roussel argues that the role of nature is all too often undervalued, as city life engulfs its inhabitants and induces forgetfulness.
Roussel strives to retain the imagination, curiosity, and open-mindedness characteristic of childhood, as these qualities are vital for nurturing the creative spirit that fuels his artistic endeavors. He envisions a future project in which he would have the opportunity to embellish an entire residence with his distinctive painted woodcuts. This ambitious undertaking would see him emulating the practices of 19th-century artists who adorned the homes of affluent patrons, integrating his unique artwork into the architectural landscape between bookshelves and along the walls.
