WantedDesign is a dynamic connector and amplifier for global design, fostering creative synergy and serving as a pivotal crossroad for the international design community across Latin America, North America, and Europe.
Steven Leprizé
French Resident
October 15 – November 30, 2022
Product Designer
About the Resident
Steven Leprizé is an artisan cabinetmaker. Trained from an early age in a variety of manufacturing techniques, he studied at fine arts school École Boulle, where he has been teaching since 2011.
He is the founder of the workshop ARCA ébénisterie, renowned for its innovations in wood and various other materials. He is well known for developing WooWood, an elastic wood technology for which he was shortlisted for the Intelligence de la main Prize from the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation in 2017.
His residency project is a combination of tradition, innovation, and curiosity. It seeks to extend his practice abroad and share this know-how with specialized workshops, manufacturers, gallery owners, and researchers.
Presented in partnership with Villa Albertine and École Boulle
Supported by the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation
Residency Highlights
Steven’s Experience
1. After one month back in Paris, what is the most important and beneficial outcome for you in spending those 2 months in New York?
SL: The creation of human links. The creation of a collection and other pieces. The improvement of my English (still in progress). The creation of professional contacts in the making.
2. What was your final impression of this residency?
SL: Intense, tiring, exciting, extraordinary, like a waking dream.
3. What was the most exciting/unexpected discovery?
SL: The optimistic and friendly nature of the people.
4. What kind of material did you bring back and how do you want to continue to develop your project?
SL: I have a little more glass work. But the materials that I decided to add to my creations are concrete, plaster and recycled leather in 3D printing.
5. Would you be interested in coming back?
SL: Sure, in May 2023 for 10 days.
6. What’s next for you and do you have upcoming projects, travels, or exhibits you want to share?
SL: I’ll be back for Wanted Design Manhattan for ARCA and STL. I’ll must to present my 3D pictures projects with flexible wood marquetry and 3D printing in January at a gallery.
About the French Residency
As part of the Villa Albertine residency program with the support of the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation.
Through reinventing artists’ residencies, is creating a network for arts and ideas spanning France and the United States. This program offers tailor-made residencies for global creators, thinkers and cultural professionals.
Starting in 2023 and until 2025, WantedDesign and Industry City will welcome 3 French designers every year; a recently graduated designer selected in partnership with a French school, a more established designer and a designer/maker.
All of these residencies receive the support of the Bettencourt Schueller Foundation.