Claude Cattelain, born in Kinshasa, now bases his artistic practice in Valenciennes and Brussels. His work investigates physical gestures and their interactions with elemental forces such as earth, water, air, and fire. By often using his body as a medium in his artistic expression, he forges a close bond with the materials and environments he engages. Additionally, this method leads to creating immersive performances that go beyond conventional artistic limits, offering a distinct sensory experience. His approach mirrors a deep connection with both nature and the human condition, characterized by tangible exploration that often yields unexpected and profound results.
The work of Claude Cattelain stands out for its focus on the fundamental and the intuitive. Shunning traditional artistic instruments, he prefers a more primal interaction with his materials. His performances, structured around basic yet impactful actions, are often set in tranquil spaces where contemplation and risk coexist. His artistic execution captivates audiences, evoking a spectrum of emotional responses. Simultaneously, it accentuates the intrinsic significance of each movement within his narrative.
Cattelain’s installations are distinguished by their engagement with time and physical space. They disrupt standard perceptions of time, either slowing it down or hastening its pace, creating environments that defy usual temporal flows. His meticulous crafting of these spaces stems from intuitive and repeated actions, pushing the boundaries of physical movement and leading to moments of unexpected change and discovery. This aspect of his work adds a dynamic layer to his exploration of the physical world.
Centering on reimagining common materials into complex installations, Cattelain redefines perceptions of form and space. This process transcends mere physical transformation, delving into existential themes. His installations invite viewers to engage deeply, transcending the visual to touch upon broader human experiences. This artistic approach yields creations that are not only visually striking but also resonate with deeper themes of existence and perception.