Eloquent and delicate with a whisper of the macabre, the surreal world of Moon invites you in to come and play.
Born in the heart of Nantes in France, Moon – otherwise known as Olivier Menanteau – has a catalogue of artistic creation at his fingertips. It was back in the realm of 1993 when a friend brought back the magazine ‘Spray Can Art’ from Paris; filled with intrigue, Olivier’s eyes were first opened to the world of graffiti art. It was from here that Olivier’s world took a turn for the creative:
‘I was dumbfounded by what could be done with spray paint and especially the creativity of people. It was a real turning point in my life. After that I started to train myself to draw letters at first. Then I worked the characters. I trained very hard for a few years without ever telling myself that it would lead me to do [the] job [I do today]. Then I went to university to study economics. I was bored but I still drew a lot.’
As expected with such a fervent imagination dispersing illustrations alongside his studies, Economics failed to light Olivier’s fire:
‘After 2 years there, I met a friend who was studying graphic design. Second revelation! That’s what I want to do! So I enrolled in a graphic art school in Nantes (Pivaut) where I studied graphic design and illustration.’
From there, Moon was born. As an artist, Moon has covered mediums from graphic design and illustration to photography, and after a bout of eight years as an Art Director and Illustrator, he developed further to become a well known freelance creator. He is lucky to enjoy the variation, going as far as to describe how it plays a ‘vital’ role for him to keep enjoying the pleasure of what he does. As a personal favourite though, Moon confesses to a soft spot for graphite on paper and drawing in general. Perhaps this is why his graphite illustrations convey an especially intricate portrayal of scenes and captured emotions straight from the heart.
Dementor
From Death Comes Life
Moon’s inspiration frequently comes from the concepts of flora and fauna and often characters live intertwined, showing stronghold relationships with nature and animals. Alongside this, Moon explains his deep interest in ‘art nouveau’ painters as well as keeping up to date with the world of animation. Although there is a clear cut between his photography and design against his illustrations, Moon’s flamboyant use of defining shapes and eye catching focal points, mixed with a strong use of colour, keep all of his creations signature.
Moon has hinted at a big solo show coming up next year in France, but is so far elusive as to the details. In the meantime as we wait for more information, check out Moon’s official website and Facebook page and get ready to absorb more of Moon’s intriguing world.
Trois Muses
TER
Dreamcatcher
Dychlamidee
Epiere
Fishes and Birds
Hanae
Judith and Holopherne
Pollen 1
Vespidae
Blue Hour
Histoire de celui qui s’en alla apprendre la peur
