Sébastien Zanello is a French sculptor and visual artist born in 1972 in the Vaucluse.
He studied visual arts at the University of Paris VIII. From a very young age, Zanello was interested in space and its influence on our feelings and behaviour. Zanello is known for his monumental sculptures, particularly steel cubes. He also works with other materials such as Burgundy stone. His works often explore the concepts of volume and space. Zanello currently lives and works in the Luberon, where he has the space he needs to create his large-scale sculptures. His works are exhibited in various galleries, including Galerie 22, and form part of urban art projects such as ‘A l’Abri d’un Regard’ in Marseille.
The importance of space in Sébastien Zanello’s works is central and manifests itself in several dimensions:
Exploration of space and volumes
From a young age, Zanello was interested in the way space conditions our sensations and our behaviour. He recreates volumes that become theatres of escape, transforming everyday objects into sculptural elements that redefine the environment. His works are designed to encourage the viewer to interact with the space, prompting them to move around the sculptures to appreciate the different perspectives.
Interaction with the public
Zanello holds art workshops in public spaces, seeking to establish a dialogue between the work, the location and the spectator. This participative approach allows the public to be both active and passive, thus enriching the artistic experience. His installations are often designed to blend harmoniously into their environment, creating a dynamic interaction between the work and its context.
Architectural approach
With a background in architecture, Zanello applies architectural principles to his sculptures. He uses square steel modules that can vary in scale, from small structures to monumental works. This allows him to play with the perception of space and influence the way people move and interact with their environment.
Redefining space
Zanello’s works do not simply occupy a space; they redefine it. For example, his sculptures can transform an ordinary place into a space for visual and sensory exploration, creating a dialogue between the viewer and their environment. This process of redefinition is essential to understanding how he sees art as a means of social interaction.
In short, for Sébastien Zanello, space is not just a passive setting for his works; it is an active element that shapes the visual and sensory experiences of the audience.
