Studio Dix Neuf
Studio Dix Neuf
Dartmouth’s reputation as a thriving centre for art galleries is further enhanced this month with the opening of Studio Dix Neuf at the corner of Foss Street & Broadstone. The new owners & ‘artists in residence’, Lys Flowerday & Gilles Bourlet talk to By The Dart about their background and their plans for the new gallery.
What particularly attracted you to move to Dartmouth?
“The desire to be resident and work in a unique place which guarantees a high quality ‘vie de quartier’ : With its kingdoms of characters and its strong storytelling identity Dartmouth is open, lively and idiosyncratic. For its distinctive and individual spirit like the legacy of local self taught artist and scientist extraordinaire William Henley (who taught himself French by reading Robinson Crusoe). Because of the architecture and the light and a tall old sloping property with no straight lines in Dartmouth’s centre which is our base. This house reminded us of Les Maisons Satie in Honfleur (Normandy), which itself is very similar to Dartmouth. One summer day we watched from a high window the magnificent spectacle of a sail being spread out and covering the whole of what we refer to as “La Place” : where Newport Street, Foss Street, Market Street and Broadstone meet at approximately the former site of the ancient tidal mill. Suddenly we saw Dartmouth as an open canvas. This area makes us think of films by Jacques Tati or Jacques Demy peopled with key players in local life. We feel we live here under the sign of a neighbouring blacksmith, a sail maker, ghosts of the mill and horses in the back storerooms of a carpet shop.”
Where were you before? What did you both do previously?
“Whilst Gilles was an artist in residence we met in France (where Lys lived). An opportunity prompted us to move to Norfolk 6 years ago.” Lys produced illustrations for museums, for books, for events and theatre productions. Previously she had worked extensively in traditional animation including making an award-winning short film. Gilles worked as a designer and maker of theatre and dance sets, exhibitions and installations, unique trophies for cultural festivals, large scale publicity objects and has been described as “Maitre d’Assemblage”. Both have been artist consultants. “As freelancers we wanted to have our own studio/workshop/gallery.”
What is Studio Dix Neuf all about?
“Studio Dix Neuf is all about welcoming our clients and customers in the place where the work is made and displayed.”
What type of work will you be selling? Where will you be producing your work?
“Unique works on paper : drawing and mixed media and developing decorative elements. Luminous sculptures for use as lamps, assemblages.” Gilles will be working principally in the studio/workshop/gallery which Lys will also use some of the time. She will work in the studio on the top floor of the house.
How long does it take to produce your art pieces? What materials do you use?
“30 years of skills and experience! We use a variety of mixed materials.”
Will you undertake commissions etc… ?
Lys : Public commissions, illustrations for cultural events, books, private, editorial and commercial use.
Gilles : luminous sculptures based on a specific theme, unique trophies, sculptures ( assemblages).
What do you think of Foss Street?
“Foss Street is like the wings of a theatre, a true street theatre. It is an inspirational place.
We love Foss Street and the whole centre of Dartmouth for its mix of people, art, quality commerce and folklore.”
First Published December 2008 By The Dart
