Discover the contemporary work of jarflo

About

Stone sculpture is much more than a simple manipulation of material. It is an intimate dialogue between the artist and the stone, an exploration of the form, texture and very essence of this ancestral art. Florence Jarrige embodies this harmony between the artisan and the stone, merging creativity with the raw beauty of this millenary material.

Her passion for stone took root in the very heart of her family, where geology was a shared fascination. Exploring the stone quarries of Burgundy from a young age, Florence nurtured a deep connection with this material. It was in these unique landscapes that she felt this visceral attraction to transform stone into works of art.

Her artistic journey took her from French lands to the United States, where she perfected her art at the distinguished institution of Elizabeth Ney, in Austin, Texas. A return to France marked the beginning of a training in "stone carving and ornamentation", and exciting collaborations in the restoration of Breton calvaries.

Florence crossed paths with the Compagnons du Devoir, a remarkable opportunity that enriched her artistic career. Her involvement in the restoration of historic cathedrals and castles polished her expertise, thus merging tradition and creativity.

Since 2012, Florence Jarrige has been affiliated with the Maison des Artistes, climbing the steps of her own studio. A place of creation where she presents her works at various exhibitions, engages in symposiums and collaborates with other sculptors. His artistic approach is a tireless quest to transcend the boundaries of matter, offering timeless works that captivate and awaken the senses.

Each sculpture in Florence is a story in itself, an invitation to discover new horizons, while maintaining a touch of timeless mystery. His ability to release the hidden essence of stone and give life to unique forms is the testimony of a magical fusion between inspiration, technical mastery and unwavering passion for this immemorial art.

1  Studying the material: The first step in my creative process is to carefully study the stone. I observe its characteristics, its texture, its color and its grain to understand its potential and its limits.

​2  Listen and feel the stone: Before starting to sculpt, I immerse myself in the stone. I listen to it, I feel its solidity, its density, its resistance. I let myself be inspired by its natural forms and its imperfections which will perhaps become the foundations of my creation.

3    Search for inspiration: Inspiration is a search for the inner world, for the immaterial, the quest for a truth beyond the visible, it is found everywhere: in people, places, emotions and experiences. It is this subtle magic that transforms the routine into something exceptional, the ordinary into a source of wonder.

4    Mentally sketch: Before I begin to physically sculpt, I mentally visualize my creation. I draw the outlines of my project, imagining the emerging forms of the stone, while remaining open to the unexpected that the material could reveal.

5    Starting the sculpture: When I begin to work the stone, I do so with respect and delicacy. Each gesture, each chisel stroke, is intentional and precise, seeking to free the hidden essence of the stone rather than to constrain it.

6    Dialog with the stone: The stone responds to my gestures, sometimes with fierce resistance, sometimes with surprising gentleness. I adapt to its reactions, gradually letting the shape I have in mind emerge while integrating the unique characteristics of the stone.

7    Refine and polish: Once the main shape is revealed, I refine the details meticulously. Each stroke of the chisel helps to clarify the lines, soften the curves, and reveal the finesse and hidden beauty of the stone.

8    Finalize and contemplate: Finally, when the sculpture takes shape, I step back to observe it from all angles. I polish it to reveal its natural shine, letting the light dance on its surfaces.