Page 139 - Contemporary Art and Old Masters

Porret muses, “If my approach seems figurative, I do not
aim for a reproduction of the human form: what interests
me is to transmit an abstract feeling or an idea rather than
an image of reality. I use recognizable forms to arouse
emotion, to give birth to sensations. I consider myself, in
fact, an impressionist.” This vision drives his work, and each
sculpture imbues depth and intensity.

Though he initially started his career by working in
Bronze, Porret began experimenting with various stones.
Dissatisfied, with his sculpture’s bases, bought a granite
and marble company, to have complete control in his work’s
creation. Yet this choice also evolved his work, and these
various stone elements have become an integral part of his
creative process and vision.

Originally from Switzerland, award-winning artist, sculptor, and
engineer Jean-Jacques Porret was exposed to art from the day he
was born to a family of art and antique collectors.
Surrounded by beautiful antiquities, statues, and artwork every
day, the seed of art was planted early, and he began carving
wood when he was just six years old. He specialized in creating
magnificent works with the lost wax technique of casting Bronze.
Bronze primarily interested him “because it is the most demanding
material which is responsive and sweet to the touch.
After acquiring his engineering degree, Porret came to New York,
anxious to learn English and build a life on his terms. There, his
career was set into motion, which soon after led him to Chicago.
Porret’s thirst for knowledge took him to museums all over the
world, absorbing all he could and sharing philosophies with
the most prominent artist of the time. As an artist, Porret is
continuously evolving, and his work and style have changed over
the years. From sharper to a softer expression of molten metal.

WORLD of ART 139