Louis Barthélemy

Louis Barthélemy

Louis Barthélemy is a multidisciplinary artist and designer with a strong international presence, currently based between Marrakech, Cairo, and Paris. At the core of Barthélemy’s artistic practice lies a profound dedication to the preservation and revitalization of traditional crafts, which are increasingly threatened by the forces of globalization. Not only does he collaborate extensively with artisans from diverse corners of the globe, but he also actively promotes their invaluable work, safeguards their livelihoods, and shares their precious knowledge and expertise. 

Barthélemy’s lifelong exploration of different cultures and civilizations began during his formative years in London. His interest was piqued when he encountered the intricately crafted articulated armor of the samurai warriors exhibited at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Subsequently, he delved into the Egyptian collection at the British Museum, which captivated his imagination, prompting him to repeatedly visit and marvel at treasures such as the Rosetta Stone. 

While pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in fashion design at Central Saint Martins, Barthélemy embarked on a professional journey with Dior as a scarf and prints designer. Balancing his responsibilities between Paris and London, he immersed himself in the world of high fashion and successfully completed his degree in 2012. 

However, as time progressed and in the wake of John Galliano’s departure from Dior, Barthélemy found himself increasingly disillusioned with the fashion industry. A health crisis served as a wake-up call, reshuffling his priorities and igniting a yearning for authentic and meaningful experiences. Consequently, he relocated to Marrakech, a city that exuded a gentle energy he deeply admired, and set out on a voyage of exploration and discovery. 

A brief love affair in Cairo in 2017 swiftly transformed into a profound fascination with Egyptian culture and craftsmanship. This newfound passion prompted Barthélemy to engage in collaborations with traditional artisans hailing from Cairo, the Nile Delta, and the secluded Berber oasis of Siwa. Expanding his creative horizons, he subsequently forged partnerships with artisans working across various mediums in Morocco, Lebanon, Tunisia and Syria. 

“I am drawn to parts of the world where humans know their lives are hanging by a thread,” Barthélemy reflects. “From this understanding, sprouts the essence of existence: faith in destiny, the power of friendship, an innate sense of kindness, and an unyielding appreciation for beauty. I strive to infuse this profound lesson from Egypt into every facet of my creative endeavors.” Marking a significant milestone in his artistic career, Barthélemy’s works will be showcased in an exhibition at the IFAN museum in Dakar in 2023. This opportunity allows him to contribute to a national institution and engage in a dialogue with the museum’s permanent collection, which had a profound impact on him during his first visit to Senegal. 

Exhibition I – Exhibition of Tapestries – 2023