In the small village of Brux, passionate sculptor Simon Cohen-Hadria has opened the doors of his workshop to students of all ages and skill levels, offering sculpture classes in wood, stone, and metal. Located at a place called Villiers, his studio serves as both a creative space and an educational hub where beginners and experienced artists alike can discover the fundamentals of sculpture while learning about sustainable art practices.
Cohen-Hadria brings impressive credentials to his teaching, having trained in stone and steel sculpture at some of the finest schools and workshops. However, what sets him apart is his innovative artistic approach that emphasizes the use of recycled and reclaimed materials. This environmentally conscious methodology reflects contemporary concerns about sustainability while creating unique artistic opportunities.
The sculptor's most ambitious project, titled "La Foule" (The Crowd), exemplifies his commitment to sustainable art practices. Over the past decade, he has meticulously crafted 11,000 individual figures, each measuring 15 centimeters tall and made entirely from reclaimed wood. This massive installation has been exhibited at both the Brux Museum-Expo and the Sauzé-Vaussais media library, showcasing the potential of recycled materials in large-scale artistic works.
The workshop classes cater to a diverse range of participants, from children to adults, regardless of their previous experience with sculpture. Students learn essential techniques including basic sculpting gestures, proper tool handling, and working with different materials such as stone, wood, and metal welding. A particular emphasis is placed on creating artworks using recycled materials, teaching students to see artistic potential in discarded items.
Beyond his workshop classes, Cohen-Hadria extends his educational mission to local schools through after-school programs. He also provides consultation services for individuals looking to implement ambitious artistic projects, helping them transform creative ideas into tangible realities. His comprehensive approach ensures that students and clients receive support throughout their artistic journey, from initial concept to final execution.
For those interested in exploring sculpture or learning about sustainable art practices, Cohen-Hadria's workshop represents an accessible entry point into the world of three-dimensional art. His combination of traditional sculpting techniques with contemporary environmental consciousness offers a unique learning experience that addresses both artistic skill development and ecological awareness.
