Thierry Fonterme

For as long as I can remember, I've always drawn and painted. I grew up in a family where creation was essential: father an architect, grandparents an artist-painter, great-grandfather an eminent portraitist, sister a textile designer and painter. I began my adult life with a trip around the world which awakened me to the observation of all natures and the different arts of the world. On my return, an irresistible desire to create overwhelmed me. 

Under the anagram Myrnof Rethetier, I had my first exhibition in Lyon: oils on canvas, pastels, batik scarves, jewellery, pottery, all the arts and crafts attracted me. My first job took me to Norway where I settled for several years. I share my time between arboriculture and painting.  The nature of this country has been an extraordinary source of inspiration. Other trips to Switzerland, Italy and the United States nourished my creation. Since 10 years, I became Savoyard. A new profession which allows me to apprehend the material, in this case wood, opens new horizons. Here again, in parallel with my work, it is impossible not to paint. And a new art to be discovered: wood sculpture: Arolla wood lends itself marvellously well to it and thus emerges, little by little, a collection of chiselled boxes and chests where the lauze is sometimes mixed.

Now free of any professional activity, the joy of creating is irresistible and I devote myself entirely to it: I want my canvases to be luminous, peaceful, intense and beautiful. Playing with the infinity of colours is an immense pleasure and pastel fills me with its texture so tender and carnal.