Artist Sabine Halm, working under the professional name Justin Etre, is currently displaying her intricate lace sculptures at the historic dovecote in Gargilesse-Dampierre through the end of October 2025. The exhibition features what can only be described as true works of art created through the ancient craft of lacemaking, reimagined through contemporary artistic vision.

The choice of her masculine artistic pseudonym has an interesting backstory. "When I was little, I dreamed of being a boy," Halm admits when people express surprise at the masculine sound of the name that now characterizes her art studio. This lesson in semantics also applies to her profession as a lacemaker, as Justin Etre describes herself as a "filographer" - a well-chosen term since her activity consists of "making threads dance."

Halm's artistic process involves transforming delicate threads into sculptural forms that blur the line between traditional craft and contemporary art. Her work represents a modern interpretation of lacemaking, elevating the centuries-old technique into three-dimensional sculptures that capture light and shadow in remarkable ways. The pieces on display demonstrate her mastery of thread manipulation, creating forms that appear to float and move despite being fixed in place.

The exhibition venue itself adds to the artistic experience. The dovecote at Gargilesse-Dampierre provides a historic backdrop that complements the traditional roots of lacemaking while allowing Halm's contemporary interpretations to shine. The architectural setting creates an interesting dialogue between the ancient building's stone walls and the delicate, ephemeral quality of the thread sculptures.

Visitors to the exhibition can witness firsthand how Halm has revolutionized the perception of lace from functional domestic craft to high art. Her sculptures demonstrate the potential for traditional techniques to find new expression in contemporary art contexts, making this exhibition a significant cultural event for both craft enthusiasts and art lovers alike.