Michel Bassompierre

Events

Michel Bassompierre stands as one of contemporary sculpture's most distinguished voices, breathing new life into the ancient art of animal sculpture with his singular vision and masterful technique. Trained in the prestigious studio of René Leleu at the École des Beaux-Arts in Rouen, Bassompierre developed his extraordinary ability to capture the essence of wild creatures through countless hours of observation and sketching.

Drawing inspiration from the legendary François Pompon, Bassompierre strips away the anecdotal to reveal pure form and movement. His sculptures of Asian elephants, gorillas, bears, and horses emerge from bronze and Carrara marble with remarkable sensitivity, each piece embodying the quiet dignity and natural grace of his subjects. The artist's profound fascination with the wild world manifests in works that surprise us with their intimacy—peaceful beings caught in unguarded moments of their lives.

Bassompierre's mastery lies in his ability to achieve forms that are both soft and precise, where light flows seamlessly without harsh shadows. This sophisticated understanding of volume and surface creates sculptures that seem to breathe with life, far removed from mere representation or sentimentality.

His exceptional artistry has garnered international recognition, including the prestigious François Pompon Prize in 2017 and the Special Prize of the Society of Animal Artists in 2018. Bassompierre's bestiary has traveled the globe, enchanting collectors and art lovers with sculptures that celebrate the profound beauty and mystery of the natural world.