Walk through the glistening world of Le Chemin des Maquettes, where every creation is a testament to elegance and innovation. It’s time to uncover mysteries behind the brand’s iconic collaborations with fashion titans like Balmain and Jean-Paul Gaultier, while delving into their relentless pursuit of sustainability and groundbreaking design. Join us as we discover the secrets of jewellery couture and glimpse into the dazzling future forged by Le Chemin des Maquettes.
hube: What influences or inspirations contribute to the unique style of Le Chemin des Maquette’s creations?
Jean-Louis Guimaron: We answer to what designers of the various Maisons de Couture we work with express in their early sketches. Then, depending on how each designer wishes to work, we either have carte blanche to develop a piece with our aesthetic or to follow their guidelines along the creation process.
h: How has the style of your jewellery evolved over time, and what factors have played a role in its development?
JLG: Our style was born from a mix of various elements: the refusal of conformism, the ‘nothing is impossible’ motto, the never-ending technical research to improve our knowledge and, therefore, the pieces, the love for challenges and the fact that we always have to work within very short timeframes, which means we always have to decide what is the best and the most effective way to go in advance.
h: You are known for having a number of iconic collaborations. For the JPG x Simone Rocha collaboration, how did this partnership originate? What specific elements of Simone Rocha’s design language or creative approach contributed to the unique character of the collaborative pieces?
JLG: We have been working with the Maison Jean-Paul Gaultier for 15 years through their jewellery stylist Laurent Tijou. We followed the artistic guidelines of the Gaultier team and added our ‘je ne sais quoi’ and technical expertise so the collection could be born.
h: Could you walk us through the artistic process of creating a new piece, from concept to the final product, highlighting the elements that make it distinct?
JLG: We start with an idea or a sketch. Then, we brainstorm about challenges and technical solutions so we can make the piece happen. After that, we wait for validation from the design team. When we get it, we start building the piece. I would say the element that makes it distinctive is the fact that we work as a team: every idea, opinion and suggestion is heard and studied. It all matters.
