Nathalie Seiller Dejean is an extraordinary artist whose passion and precision bring to life the ancient art of straw marquetry. Featured in one of Rue Pigalle’s blog posts, Nathalie’s journey in this intricate craft began with a deep respect for the tradition and a desire to explore its expressive potential. Straw marquetry, an art form dating back to the 17th century, involves splitting and flattening natural straw, which is then dyed, cut, and meticulously arranged to create stunning, textured compositions. Each piece of straw has unique colour variations, adding depth and a captivating, almost luminescent quality to her work.
Nathalie’s approach to straw marquetry goes beyond technical skill; it’s a labour of love that honours both tradition and innovation. She blends classic motifs with contemporary designs, allowing her work to feel simultaneously timeless and modern. Her pieces are versatile, used in everything from custom furniture and luxury interior design to stand-alone artwork. This adaptability is a testament to her vision: to keep straw marquetry relevant in a world where such art forms often risk fading away. Nathalie’s dedication to her craft resonates deeply with The ARCH’s mission to support and celebrate rare and exceptional craft skills globally, reminding us of the immense cultural value these traditional practices hold.
One of the defining aspects of Nathalie’s work is her careful sourcing of materials. She selects high-quality rye straw from organic farms, a choice that not only impacts the aesthetic of her work but also aligns with sustainable practices. Nathalie’s commitment to sustainability, from raw material selection to her use of environmentally conscious dyes, enhances the uniqueness and quality of her creations. Her attention to the ecological impact of her materials speaks to a broader awareness and respect for the natural world, an ethos she believes is integral to the practice of traditional crafts.
Her meticulous process requires patience and precision; each straw must be soaked, flattened, cut, and placed with exacting care. This slow, deliberate pace contrasts with today’s often rapid production cycles, inviting us to pause and appreciate the value of time, effort, and intentional craftsmanship. Nathalie's work exemplifies the core of what Rue Pigalle and The ARCH champion: an appreciation for artisans who bring dedication, skill, and mindfulness to their creations.
In the Rue Pigalle feature, Nathalie shares insights into her creative process and how she sustains her passion for straw marquetry amid the challenges that come with pursuing a niche craft. She speaks to the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to explore new applications for her work, all of which are critical in sustaining traditional crafts in the modern world.
Nathalie Seiller Dejean’s journey in straw marquetry serves as both inspiration and reminder of the beauty and importance of preserving these rare skills. Her work invites us into a world where craft becomes art, tradition meets modernity, and nature's raw materials are transformed into enduring beauty.
To learn more about Nathalie’s craft, her journey, and the creative process behind her stunning work, read the full article on Rue Pigalle’s website here.
Image credits: All Rue Pigalle
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