Techniques of expression

Trained for a classical trade, Jean Hirtzel always considered painting as a means of infinite investigation and the idea that this technique of expression could be considered outdated only made him smile ironically.

His perfect technical knowledge of the visual arts allows him to carry out personal experiments and even if he favours traditional materials (canvas, cardboard, paper, wood, chipboard), he sometimes paints on sculpted pieces and adds objects to his paintings.

From his Brazilian sojourn onwards, he frequently uses sand and earth, either mixed with oil paint or used as solid colour glued on. During the last ten years, he created a series of double-sided artworks on large jute canvases that are held by metal bars allowing them to be suspended and stabilised in space. These double-sided artworks are accompanied by sculpted sticks and represent possible installations.