The edges between the art and the artist can be very blurred. More often than not, a visual artist will create a work space that is also art. Quite by accident, it seems. Here is the Paris studio of fabric artist and costume designer, Manon Gignoux, best known for her “dolls” made out of vintage fabrics and pieces of furniture.A sunny window and a simple work table, drawing and cutting tools, and plenty of imagination.

Crates neatly stacked hold a fascinating array of fabrics, sketchbooks and bits to incorporate into her pieces. Most of the fabrics are pre 1950 work wear and uniforms. The simplicity and functionality of this end of the studio speaks volumes. We certainly can get a sense of where this person’s heart lies. This is life lived close to the bone. The great richness here is in the pure joy of the creative process. Taking vintage fabrics, reconfiguring them and breathing new life in to their fibers. Stacked crates are a time tested and wonderful solution to creating storage. Some good ones are available at Bailey’s Home and Garden.

Collections seem to be a subject of this blog quite a bit lately. Here again, I am drawn to this fascinating assemblage of antique dolls, worn fabric shoes, little boxes, bottles, beads, bangles and buttons. But no bling here. These objects have stood the test of time and don’t have any polish left…just lots of stories to tell.

This corner of the studio features a mannequin with a restructured cotton dress, and a tiny porcelain sink for washing paint brushes or dyeing.More shelves of fabrics. See how lovely they are arranged by color. I have a client who has a large collection of hand made quilts. She organizes them into fat folded shapes and stacks them on a deep shelf in the guest room. Our color scheme for the room reflects the soft colors in the quilts, and it makes a most inviting vignette.We will keep you in suspense no longer. Here is an example of Gignoux’s inspired work. This cello like “doll” is constructed from a jacket with upside down sleeves set atop an a chair wearing a loose slipcover from an armchair. It was exhibited at Paris’s St-Cloud contemporary biennial. Notice the beautiful french mirror complete with pealing paint…just the kind of thing to be found at the Paris flea market. Or you might check out the mirror selection at?The French House?next time you’re in London.

Here is the artist modeling a refashioned coat of many pieces. Lest we think her art is randomly created, we are told that she archives fabrics systematically according to four themes. First, signs of wear and tear which includes pieces that are patched and mended. Second, pieces with folds, gathers and creases. Third, layered, smocking and pin tucks. And fourth, reverse sides and linings.

A simple kitchen. Pans and crockery on full display. Not a lot of extra stuff anywhere. Oh…I love this lifestyle. Our stuff takes so much energy, doesn’t it? ?To maintain it, to store it… to pay for in the first place! While this art studio and living space is unembellished and functional, it is vibrating with creative potential. The artist hardly needs to shop for a painting or a rug. Her fabrics and collectibles are more than enough stimulation for the senses.

To our artist, Manon Gignoux: Thank you for allowing us into your studio. Your space is both peaceful and fascinating and and we will look for more of your inspired work on the world market.

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Photographs from The World of Interiors February 2008