LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
ARTS & COLLECTIBLES
ELEGANCE IN TIMBER
Julian Schwarz’s sculptural vessels, represented by Maison Parisienne Gallery, embody a timeless blend of Romanesque artistry and traditional craftsmanship, showcasing the natural beauty and integrity of wood in each meticulously handcrafted piece.
Maison Parisienne - Julian Schwarz - Neuf Poignées,
Bow Tie Bowl, Classic Walnut Urn - Collect London 2023 © Bénédicte Drummond
Big Plate Percée, 2024 © maison parisienne
Julian Schwarz’s work stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of sculptural vessels, deeply rooted in Romanesque art and traditional craftsmanship. His pieces are not mere decorations but sculptural vessels that embody a balance between utility and sculptural strength. Each creation begins with a sketch—an imagined construction that forms the foundation of his art. “My sculptural process begins with drawing,” Schwarz explains. “These are not representational drawings but rather imagined constructions and patterns. I need a strong theme that resonates with me; this gives me momentum and direction.”
The essence of Schwarz’s art lies in his reverence for the materials he uses, particularly wood, which he sources from local sawmills and farms near his studio in Burgundy. His tools are traditional, eschewing machinery for hand tools such as axes, chisels, and gouges, which allow him to shape the wood with an intimate understanding of its natural properties. “The character of the wood plays a significant role in my work, but it’s up to the artist to shape it with their creativity, within the constraints and possibilities of the material,” says Schwarz.
Rounded Oak, 2008
© Bénédicte Drummond
Legged Urn
© maison parisienne
Hole in the Head, 2010 © Antoine Lippens
Schwarz’s influences are as varied as they are profound. His admiration for Romanesque art is evident in the simple, unadorned elegance of his work, while the mystical early stone chapels of Italy and the exquisite joinery of traditional Japanese timber buildings resonate in the strength and sobriety of his sculptures. Reflecting on his inspirations, he notes, “The organic and sensual forms of my sculptures, often inspired by everyday objects like bowls and urns, embody a sense of purity and lack of artifice. This emphasis on understated beauty and material honesty is crucial to my artistic vision.”
Wooven Erable, 2023
© Vincent Leroux
Divided Poplar Basket, 2006 © Antoine Lippens
Walnut Big Cup, 2003
© Antoine Lippens
In an age where digital tools dominate the art world, Schwarz remains committed to traditional methods, valuing the tactile and material engagement that comes with handcrafting each piece. His hope is that viewers connect with his work on a deep, tactile level, appreciating the interplay of form, texture, and the natural beauty of the wood. “I want the audience to feel a connection to the craftsmanship and the enduring qualities of the wood, understanding that each piece represents a dialogue between the artist and the material,” he shares.
As Schwarz continues to explore new mediums, including large woodcut prints, his work remains a continuous exploration of timeless artistic practices. He remains grateful for the motivation that drives him to create, with no specific plans for the future but a steadfast commitment to his craft. “Certain practices are timeless and always relevant,” he concludes, reflecting on the continuity of his artistic journey.
Schwarz’s work is represented by Maison Parisienne Gallery, where the tradition of craftsmanship and the integrity of materials are celebrated in each of his sculptural vessels. His art is a quiet, powerful ode to the past, capturing a sense of timelessness and subtle power that resonates deeply with connoisseurs of art.