Interview with the Artist – Eric Besson

Eric Besson is a French artist, metal worker and furniture designer who works predominantly with industrial and re-purposed metals, often times mixing these with a variety of other vintage elements to create compelling furniture designs and decorative objects. His work has been selected by leading designers for significant commercial projects, including the flagship John Varvatos store in New York City, which I visited recently for the second time.

The collection exhibited at Alhambra (Antiques) features furniture works embellished with vintage letters from former printing houses.

At what age or point in your life did you realize that you needed to create full time? I have always been fascinated with metal and design, and I have been doing small-scale works for years, including the restoration of collectible automobiles. It wasn’t until a few years ago that I transitioned full time to designing my own creations at the age of 40.

What mediums do you use and why? I work solely in metallurgy because of its capacity for decoupage and manipulation – and its strong characteristics. It just appeals to me.

How would you describe your style? Industrial renaissance! Finding new interpretations for metals.

Who were your influences earlier in your career? And now? At first I was working in the spirit of Gustave Eiffel, and today I am more influenced by creators or designers such as Cesar (sculptor) and Philippe Starck.

What inspires you? Anything industrial, particularly from the late 19 century and early 20th century – old factories, vintage machinery and the like.

Describe yourself in five words. Confident, Insouciant (Joyous), Strict, Epicurean, Happy.

What does the future hold for you? I have confidence in the future. I think my craft has so many creative possibilities.

Who or what do you hate? Mediocrity.

Do you have any advice for aspiring designers or artists? Believe in yourself!

Can you explain your pseudonym “Raoul W.”? I chose this name after one of my favorite movie characters – Raoul Wolfoni – from the 1963 film “Les Tontons Flingueurs.”

Note: this interview was translated from French, edited and condensed.

Tags: Art, Artist, Design, Furniture, Interview