Table of Contents
The Commission and Inspiration
The commission was announced in 2020, and Claire Tabouret has been working on the project since then. The project is a collaboration between Tabouret and the French Ministry of Culture, as well as the Paris Archbishop’s office. The six stained glass windows will be installed in the cathedral’s nave, transept, and rose window. The windows will be designed to reflect the history and significance of Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as the values of the Catholic Church. The project aims to create a sense of continuity and connection between the old and the new, as well as between the cathedral’s past and present. Tabouret has stated that she is inspired by the cathedral’s architecture, the city of Paris, and the history of the Catholic Church.
The Design Process
Tabouret’s design process involves a combination of research, experimentation, and collaboration. She has been studying the cathedral’s architecture, as well as the history of stained glass art.
Tabouret’s use of color is deliberate and calculated, often incorporating bold, bright hues that clash with the muted tones of the underpaintings.
The Art of Tabouret: A Study of Layering and Nostalgia
Tabouret’s artistic style is characterized by a unique blend of contemporary and nostalgic elements. Her use of layering paint to create complex, textured compositions is a hallmark of her work. This technique allows her to convey a sense of depth and history in her paintings, making them feel both modern and timeless.
The Power of Underpaintings
Tabouret’s use of day-glo underpaintings is a deliberate choice that adds a sense of energy and vitality to her work. These bright, neon hues provide a striking contrast to the muted tones of the overpainting, creating a sense of tension and visual interest. For example, in her self-portrait “Untitled,” Tabouret uses a vibrant orange underpainting that is then covered by a layer of soft, muted blue paint. The resulting effect is a painting that feels both contemporary and nostalgic, with the bright orange underpainting adding a sense of urgency and emotion.
The Role of Finish
Tabouret’s use of timeworn finishes adds a sense of nostalgia and history to her work. These finishes, which can range from subtle to dramatic, create a sense of depth and texture in her paintings.
The Art of Intertwining Reality and Fantasy
Tabouret’s work is characterized by a unique blend of reality and fantasy, drawing inspiration from various art movements and styles. Her paintings often depict dreamlike scenarios, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred.