As a child, artist Anne-Valerie Dupond collected stuffed animals; they reassured her. That child remains in her present work, seen in soft textures, contrasting patterns, and exaggerated features.

 

For 20 years, Dupond has worked with recovered fabrics. Armed with a needle and thread, she crafts a sensitive world full of ferocious beasts, fantastical animals, and human forms.

 

Dupond’s work has been exhibited around the world in cities including, Paris, Tokyo, Dublin, New York, Shanghai, and Osaka. She has also collaborated with large brands such as Kayo Nakamura for Y’s, KENZO, Medicom Toy, and Southfiness Ltd and Undercover.

 

Oftentimes taking inspiration from traditional artforms, such as classical and baroque sculpture, busts of historical figures, and hunting trophies, the works begin a game of contradictions between cuteness and darkness; the feminine and the masculine; solemn sculpture and embroidery; noble and humble materials. Bronze and marble are replaced by recycled fabrics. Neutral colours are replaced by clashing fabrics. Whatever the representation, Dupond approaches the duality of opposites with humour; solemn sculpture is transformed into a playful experience.

Recently, she has been working with flowers, exploiting their ornamental qualities while juxtaposing their ephemerality. Made of recycled fabrics, they remain eternal.