French ceramic artist Léonore Chastagner transforms ordinary moments of daily life into tender, intimate sculptures that capture the subtle beauty of human gestures and everyday objects. Working with natural-colored clay, she meticulously crafts detailed representations of the human form, carefully rendering the wrinkles on knuckles, creases in denim jeans, and the intricate layers of casually folded t-shirts.

Chastagner approaches her ceramic work as a deeply personal practice, using the medium to document her inner world and immediate surroundings. "I use clay as one uses a diary: to record the feelings of daily life and the things that surround me," she explained in an interview. "I take interest in what's in front of me when I'm alone: my apartment, clothes, small gestures of the body." This intimate approach results in sculptures that feel both universal and deeply personal.

The artist's academic background in art history significantly influences her creative vision, particularly through her fascination with archaeology and the mysterious origins of ancient figurines and personal objects. She draws inspiration from historical practices where small talismans and precious goods were buried alongside the deceased to accompany souls into the afterlife—rituals that appeared across numerous ancient civilizations worldwide. This connection to historical traditions adds layers of meaning to her contemporary ceramic works.

Clay serves as the perfect medium for Chastagner's artistic expression due to its timeless nature and inherent malleability. The material's soft, immediately responsive quality represents freedom and openness in her creative process, allowing her to explore various techniques and consistencies. "I was also drawn to clay's simplicity," the artist noted. "It's a natural material that's been used by human beings since the earliest civilizations. It has a universal quality."

In her recent body of work, Chastagner has expanded beyond individual objects and figurative gestures to create miniature domestic environments, including small bedrooms and living rooms. These detailed installations move beyond singular forms to consider the spaces that encompass and surround the human body. The works evoke a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of childhood dollhouses, creating intimate worlds that viewers can explore and connect with emotionally.

Chastagner's artistic achievements have gained significant recognition in the contemporary art world. Her work will be featured in a solo presentation during Ceramic Brussels, running from January 21 to 25, celebrating her victory in the fair's juried Art Prize last year. Looking ahead, she is preparing for two major solo exhibitions: one opening in April at Centrale in Brussels and another in May at Galerie Anne-Sarah Bénichou in Paris. These upcoming shows will provide broader audiences with opportunities to experience her thoughtful explorations of human intimacy and domestic life through the ancient medium of clay.