Initially inspired by the traditional gyotaku technique, I am interested in a raw, direct imprint that reminds me of the fossils of my childhood in Algeria. I explore the meaning of the trace left by the creatures.

My technique evolved to ultimately capture the finest details by reproducing the animal in acrylic on satin. The resulting image, like a fingerprint, faithfully reproduces its biological uniqueness. Freed from the intermediary of gesture and my subjectivity, the physical form of the specimen is elevated to the status of a work of art.

I play with the temporal dimension: by inventing the fossils of tomorrow, I want to question our view of the creatures around us, our relationship to the transformation of the oceans, to the fragility of their heritage.

Like a naturalist's archives, the satin pieces are displayed between two panes of glass. I want to protect them from any outside influence. The creatures thus appear suspended in their setting, as if floating weightlessly in a timeless element, half past, half future.

 

The specimens used come from small traditional fisheries or are provided by environmental protection and conservation organizations.

Turtle footprints are made in collaboration with the Kélonia care center, working on the remains of turtles that could not be saved.

A collection of 23 prints made from emblematic specimens of the Réunion coast has been acquired by the Cité de l'Océan in Biarritz.