The designer and artist is showcasing his interpretation of Samaritaine's emblem — the peacock. With its vibrant tones and towering silhouette, his work plays with transparent materials to create a fun yet seamless addition to Magic City. We interviewed this lover of nature, who remains very much in touch with his inner child.

How would you describe your art?

I work with color and light through the use of colored shadows. My chosen medium of recycled plexiglass allows me to play with the sun's natural movement, like a bright and colorful sundial. My work has an anamorphic element because its appearance changes depending on the angle from which it is viewed.

What does Samaritaine mean to you?

I'm a Parisian and Samaritaine has always been familiar to me. Its Art Deco and Art Nouveau influences, highly stylized lettering, glass roof and restored peacock fresco: all these things resonate with me. Samaritaine is a symbol of Paris and is harmonious with my personal taste. I had that very fresco in mind when I created the plexiglass peacock one year ago.

How did you come up with the idea?

The peacock is a majestic, visually striking animal that has always captivated my imagination, especially when I used to go on walks around Parc de Bagatelle as a child. I wanted to honor the peacock by letting it fan out its feathers! Each plexiglass shape is carefully assembled and etched to make it seem as if the piece is hovering, creating the illusion of levitation. I approach my work like it's a piece of jewelry, enhancing every single detail. The piece can be admired from all angles on its rotating platform, where lights and colors highlight its beauty. I also like the fact that the peacock's back is visible — a full 360° spectacle.

Can you explain how the Magic City theme ties in with your approach and your work? 

My creations are like piecing together a puzzle, but with the additional aspect of movement. Also, I've always loved fairground games. My current work is closely connected with the idea of childhood — not least in the colors I choose.

Environmental concerns have a very strong influence on your work. How are these reflected here?

A large portion of my work consists of creating insects on a large scale to achieve an imposing look that showcases the complexity of each species and the beauty of the environment. The sense of time also plays an important role in my work, as it does in nature. Depending on the peacock's angle, light will move around the support and introduce a "slow life" element. This also encourages the viewer to pause and take a moment to appreciate every minute.

Given that the interplay of light is vital to your work, what makes Samaritaine a great backdrop?

The store is a real light well, so being able to display the peacock there is a big deal! And let's not forget the iconic fresco echoing my work from above. I hope my peacock on the ground will encourage visitors to gaze skyward and discover the fresco on the 5th floor!

"Le paon emblématique" (The iconic peacock), on the ground floor of the Pont-Neuf side from June 6 to September 5.