With refined subjects borrowed from nature, Callier’s nostalgic artworks are able to transport us to a different reality. The strength of a tree, rustling of leaves, ephemerality of a flower, fragile petals, the moving beauty of a landscape are all a source of inspiration when it comes to painting delicate figures coated with a longing feeling. To achieve the wistful effect, Callier utilises an interesting technique: she paints in watercolour on waxed Japanese paper.
Enclosing the paper in wax not only ensures that it is waterproof, it also creates a velvety transparency that changes the incidence of light. In point of fact, what makes her room dividers so unique is the dialogue that is created from both sides of the screen. “The murmurs of the material continue on the other side. Depending on the light, the transparency allows us to see a certain blur, a presence of light and delicate shadows. There is an invitation to go see and experience the material on the other side.”
© Courtesy of the artist
Where do you live and work at the moment?
I live and work in Luxembourg for 11 years now.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
I take a walk into the woods or go to art galleries, visit an exhibition. I also go to bookshops, or have coffee with friends in one of the numerous cafés in town.
© Mathew Browne
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
I can answer with what interests me the most : the culture! And also the multicultural environment. With more than 170 different nationalities living in Luxembourg, it is really interesting!
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
Public transport is completely free and it’s really enjoyable. The cultural life offers more and more exhibitions, theatre pieces, concerts ! There’s so many things to watch, listen and visit. And of course from here, it is very easy to pay a visit to other big cities. Moreover, there are many local manufacturers for food, restaurants, retail stores. I would recommend you to try the artisanal chocolates from “Genaveh” (they are my favorites and as a Belgian, I do love chocolates of course :-))
Do you have a secret restaurant tip you would like to share with us?
My favorite restaurants are “Le Bistrot du Sommelier”, “Le fin gourmand”, “L’Hêtre”, “Vinissimo”… Actually, there are so many good restaurants that the list could be very long.
© 2024 Les Espaces Saveurs
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
If you want to find something really special from Luxembourg, “The Luxembourg House” will offer you plenty of gifts, souvenirs, but also wines, local products etc…
© Luxembourg House
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
-France Culture (radio)
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
I’m listening to the radio or podcasts (France Culture or RTBF Belgium) and reading some articles from either newspapers online or art magazines.
© LTF
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constraints – which one would you choose?
A quiet place on the top of the hills with a view on the sea through some pine trees… Ravello?
© Courtesy of the artist
