Bas Atelier

BAS Atelier emerged from a deep-seated fascination with light, texture, and form– elements that lie at the centre of our connection to the built environment. Light plays the central role in the essence of the pieces. The intricate textures and interplay of forms in the bas-reliefs come to life as natural light dances and evolves, casting dynamic shadows that transform throughout the day.

The pieces embody a balance between transience and rootedness, resonating with both the fleeting beauty of nature and the enduring structures of architecture. A profound admiration for the natural world informs the process, composition, and cadence of the reliefs.

The designs materialize through a reflective process of studying and documenting natural patterns, which are then interpreted into a sequence of emotive, spontaneous sketches. Each artwork evolves organically through an instinctive sketching technique, subsequently carved into reclaimed wood panels to different depths, and hand painted with meticulous coats of lime wash pigment.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the artwork. The limewash paint is made from crushed limestone, water, and natural pigments. I’m drawn to this medium not just for its aesthetic properties, but also for its breathability and ability to age gracefully, developing a beautiful patina over time. The careful application of limewash layers onto the bas-reliefs creates nuanced textures that allow viewers to appreciate the delicate interactions of light over the carved wood planes.

My latest works were conceived while observing the nuanced patterns found in eroded natural and urban environments. Through carving, this inspiration is translated into a series of abstract compositions. Each element and shape seeks to create a visual and formal balance that bridges the transient with the terrestrial.

Bas-relief, also known as low-relief, stands as one of humanity’s earliest forms of artistic expression, dating back as far as 30,000 years ago in caves and stone structures. It has evolved throughout the years into a diverse range of sculptural expressions. In my work, I aim to channel my passion for nature through this medium, creating a contemporary yet enduring aesthetic that through its relationship with light, speaks to the passage of time.