In search of new creative workshops, I chose to discover the art of stained glass at the Alexso workshop, in Pérouges. I show you ?
What can make a groundhog like me get up on a Saturday morning?
Two possibilities: pain au chocolat from the Rapaud Bakery or a creative workshop.
Good and well this morning I promise, I won't lick my fingers, because I chose to discover Tiffany stained glass art with Sophie, the Alexso workshop in Perouges!
A stained glass workshop in Pérouges!
The Alexso workshop is close to the medieval city of Pérouges, just opposite the tourist office. It's very practical, you don't have to look for places.
Sophie's workshop, an art glass roof, takes place where we used to find the herbalist workshop, who has now moved to Marchamp. No, now we no longer buy essential oils, but artistic creations, all of which are essential on a daily basis. Because yes, I am one of those who love art, the beautiful, the unique, the creation coming out of the imagination or the poetry of a spirit that lets its light pass by transforming matter with its hands!
Speaking of light that is the whole point of a stained glass !
We are used to seeing them in certain monuments, such as the fortress church of Pérouges.
Beginning of the stained glass workshop
That is precisely what Sophie explains to us after a warm coffee welcome, friendly and very frank. Before getting her hands on the glass, she shares some of her knowledge about the art she proudly represents. It's that they are not very numerous stained glass artists in Ain, so I drink his words (and the end of my coffee at the same time).
Sophie chooses to welcome few participants in its discovery workshops (4 or 5 maximum).
So we have room and all his attention. It's perfect, I chat a lot and I like to ask questions.
Everything interests me! From the history of stained glass, to the choice of composition, passing through the necessary interplay of opacity or translucency. The themes it offers are varied.
creative momentum
I came for the wildlife. My idea is quite far-fetched:
make a quetzal ! (note: Central American bird with colorful plumage)
She laughs, finding me very daring to have firmly decided to give life to this rare and sacred bird. However, it will in no way hinder my creative impulse overflowing with enthusiasm! (photo: D. Hatcher)
Let's go ! I choose the pieces of glass that will constitute my masterpiece. Gradually the bird takes shape. I then plant my small spades to hold in place all the pieces of glass previously cut and ground by the head artist.
Carefully I glue the copper strip all around each piece. I apply myself while discussing. Here the friendliness is in order and we feel like at home. I'm relaxed and happy to be here. Really. It's perfect in these times when we are asked to stay locked up. I live again, I'm escaping, even if the barrier gestures are present and respected!
Birth of a wonderful bird
equipped with protective gloves provided by Sophie (as well as all the rest of the equipment for that matter) I tackle at welding. I hadn't touched a soldering iron and tin since middle school. I have a lot of fun, while being careful to respect the safety instructions.
And then after about 2 hours of work my quetzal is held. I'm jubilant, it's beautiful! I am proud: it is unique and will remain so, like all the creations that come to life here!
With my friendly workshop mate we think we're done but not at all!
A stained glass window takes a long time to clean in order to give the best of itself when suspended near a light source.
Time flies but we don't see it pass. A bit of white Meudon here, a touch of rag there, the glass degreases and reveals itself.
Each admires the work of the other with great benevolence. We congratulate each other, we take some souvenir photos. After three good hours of workshop were born an elephant and a tropical bird.
I think it's the first time we've seen it in Pérouges!
As many possibilities as inspiration
My barely wrapped bird – just as I am – I promise myself to be back soon.
It will be done the following month. This time, in order to prepare for Christmas, I embark on the realization of a starry angel. Not really being academic, I amuse myself by sending him down a slope on a snowboard, equipped with a torch.
Living on a hill, I will hang it very high. He will be a sort of adventurous archangel admiring the beautiful views from the heights of Bugey.
Promise sworn, I'll be back! But I don't know yet for which subject among all stained glass workshops of Sophia. Dream catcher, fauna, flora, Easter fish? My niece will choose. I offered her a workshop for Christmas, she was delighted!
From the top of her 12 ½ years (yes, the half is important), as she is smart (and accompanied by an adult), she can also escape by participating in a workshop.
In summary I like:
– free expression of creativity
– the fact of not being limited in the number of pieces of glass
– the colorful and original personality of Sophie
– exchange and sharing for a morning
Any other ideas?
If you also like artists as much as I do, you're in luck because in Pérouges there are plenty of others:
Saskia's workshop, the wood stall, Claru painter, Potter Pillager, Seulki the binder, Fati the calligrapher
At the bend of a shop or a workshop you should treat yourself!
How lucky we are other artists and artisans surround us at the foot of Pérouges up to the beautiful villages of Bugey. The occasion of explore the surroundings for a weekend or during the holidays!
The boutique workshops are full of nice gifts to do to others or to yourself!
Go shoo, it's decided I'm leaving my house ... as soon as possible!
