Steph Cop sculpts fallen trees that he finds in his forest in the Morvan region, where he has been living for several years. His work brings to life the vital force of the tree, embodied in the various figures of A.R.O. Art extends the life cycle by integrating itself into the ecosystem. Today, surrounded by the trees, the artist navigates these troubled times. It is in the oxygen of the first spring leaves, distilled by the gentle breeze, that Steph Cop draws energy for renewal. CoVid has taken its toll on him. The trees take care of him, the artist who preserves their destiny by sublimating them.
The questions he brings to the world through his work concern our relationship with life, our incorporation into the vital cycle. Therefore, the artist Steph Cop is eminently sensitive to this upheaval. He will no longer sculpt as before. There will be a different kind of work.
Steph Cop sends us a photograph of her studio on the 23rd day of lockdown, accompanied by these few words written during her convalescence:
“How many trees will I plant tomorrow?”
In the morning, I go around everyone, like a ritual of the beginning of spring. A form of sensitive reading in the morning, that’s how each day of my confinement begins. After experiencing the oppression of CoVid, simple breathing becomes a deep emotion; nature is restorative.
The experience of solitude may be indispensable when it is chosen. Isolation is something else; I imagine everyone feels it.
Meanwhile the forests, the plains, nature in full bloom.
Meanwhile, what part will I take for the interiority? At what point will I resume sculpting?
It is my long and intimate story that must find its place in this global rupture.
This morning I cut 8 sheets, ready to draw on.
Yesterday I planted 50 trees.
Today I’m going to pick up my pencils again.”
Steph Cop’s work is always rooted in writing. First the words, then the drawing, always preceding the sculpted form. The artist keeps a daily journal. In this troubled time, words are used to chase away the evils. Sculpture will come later; it will fill in the gap.
Photo credit: Bálint Pörneczi
Social networks Steph Cop (instagram): @Steph_Cop
