Olivier, Aouste-sur-Sye (Drôme), diptyque, 2020

Christine Houssay  

The olive tree diptych relates two branches pruned from the same tree.

These are young branches, where the almost white sapwood dominates over the heartwood we are used to, which is more golden, with more pronounced growth rings.

From the outset, these two branches appeared to me to be the horizontal and the vertical.

I created this sculpture during the lockdown, which I experienced in the particular way of those who, because of Covid, could not be sure of proper care for their own pathologies.

This context also gave a particular meaning to the confrontation between the horizontal and the vertical, which recalled the interweaving, the interdependence of behaviors between patients and caregivers.

This diptych must be positioned so that the notches of the two elements are facing each other, maintaining a small distance of less than two centimeters between the two.

This wooden sculpture is distinguished by its organic simplicity and contemporary feel. Crafted from raw wood, it features two arched forms rising in harmony, evoking branches or natural shapes. The smooth texture and warm hue of the wood add a tactile dimension, inviting sensory exploration. The dynamic positioning of the elements creates a delicate balance, like a moment suspended in time. The piece rests on a flat surface, providing visual and physical stability. The artist succeeds in capturing the essence of nature while infusing it with a minimalist, modern aesthetic. The work invites reflection on the relationship between humankind and nature, a silent yet powerful dialogue.