In the heart of Toulouse, a young artist named Ben is making a name for himself by blending his queer identity with the traditional art of porcelain painting. At just 30 years old, Ben has already established his own atelier, Atelier Ero where he creates stunning and provocative pieces that challenge societal norms.
Ben’s journey into the world of art is as unique as his creations. After earning a master’s degree in gender studies, he decided to explore his artistic side, teaching himself the craft of porcelain painting. His work is deeply influenced by his studies and personal experiences, resulting in pieces that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
Inspiration from Ancient Greece
One of the key inspirations for Ben’s work is the homoerotic imagery found on ancient Greek vases. He is drawn to the beauty and sensuality of these historical artifacts and seeks to recreate and reinterpret this imagery in his own unique style. By doing so, he aims to give life to a sensitive and tender heritage that resonates with his queer identity.
The Art of Object Creation
Ben’s choice to work with objects, particularly those used in daily life like tableware, is a deliberate one. He enjoys the idea of leaving a unique, often imperfect, mark on these items. This imperfection, he believes, is what makes each piece beautiful and special. By infusing everyday objects with his art, Ben brings a touch of the extraordinary into the ordinary.
The Allure of Porcelain
The material Ben has chosen to work with is porcelain, a substance often associated with nobility and bourgeoisie. He finds it fascinating to transform this traditional material into something kitsch and queer. This subversion of expectations is a central theme in his work, and he enjoys the idea of presenting these pieces to his family, including his mother-in-law.
The Creative Process
Ben’s creative process involves finding and repurposing existing porcelain pieces. He searches for items with interesting textures or designs and then gives them a new lease on life by adding his own unique artwork. He uses the existing motifs or borders as a canvas for his drawings. After painting, he bakes the pieces in a kiln at 150°C for 30 minutes to set the enamel, making the items both beautiful and functional.
Sources of Inspiration
Ben’s creations are deeply rooted in his queer identity and draw inspiration from a variety of sources. He is influenced by the works of Jean Genet, Abdellah Taïa, and Nan Goldin, as well as Greek myths. Occasionally, his personal experiences and relationships also find their way into his art. This blend of influences results in pieces that are deeply personal and universally relatable.
