From Nov. 13-17, Carpenters Workshop will feature work by French artist Ingrid Donat at The Salon: Art + Design, in New York. Her bronze sculpted furniture is influenced by tribal tattooing and the work of Gustav Klimt and Armand-Albert Rateau. A+A interviewed a representative of the Workshop via email today:

How many pieces will be in the exhibition?
8-10 works.

What is the range of works?
There is a wide range of functional sculpture ranging from chests of drawers, wall panels to low tables

The materials?
High quality natural materials including bronze, silver and leather.

The intent of the artist’s designs?
New works have been created for The Salon: Art & Design 2014, such as Banc Tribal in bronze and leather. The artist is involved in every stage of the production from her original designs.

Who and what are the major influences on her work?
Ingrid Donat takes her inspiration from Africa, Oceana and South America. The complex patterns with which she decorates bronze is evocative of Art Deco, tribal tattooing, or even the work of Gustav Klimt and Armand-Albert Rateau. Born in Paris into a family of artists, Ingrid Donat was brought up in Sweden. In 1975 she returned to her birthplace to realize her passion for sculpture at the Ecole des Beaux Arts. Strongly encouraged by her mentor Diego Giacometti, she began to create functional pieces.

To what degree will the works be experiential?
All create a feeling of involvement. In addition to her skilled craft, Ingrid Donat is also an accomplished engineer. Commode 7 Engrenages incorporates a column of cogs into its sides. They begin to whir when the chest’s drawers are opened or closed. The intrinsic mechanism animates the piece with movement and sound.

What is the desired effect on visitors?

A transmission of the influences Ingrid draws upon, and understanding of her craftsmanship and dedication to artisan techniques.

For more information, go here.

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