Let’s start from the roots, how does your story begin?
During the first lockdown, to avoid spending two months in a 15m² apartment, Romane and I moved to the countryside. We had plenty of free time and many opportunities ahead of us: tractors, mud, cows, apples… so we started experimenting! It all began as a game, to fill those beautiful spring days. At the end of the lockdown, we thought that maybe this game was worth turning into a job.
Who are the people who have inspired you the most artistically and professionally?
Among the many interesting figures we have encountered (in person or through books), I immediately think of Kengo Kuma, a Japanese architect who seeks harmony between human architecture and the natural space surrounding it. This idea is somewhat the foundation of all our projects.
Staying in Japan, I would like to mention the “Daikusan,” the Japanese carpenters. Their work is a constant source of inspiration. Their craft is truly an art: it is not just about producing a result, but it places great importance on gestures, research, and the perfection of details.
How does nature inspire your projects and lifestyle?
We were born in the countryside, we grew up in spaces where nature is very present. Personally, I believe that an art gallery is not worth a nice swim in a mountain stream! Besides this, we like living close to nature and using elements like wood to create and express our ideas.
If your project were music, what track would it be?
A song by “Apres la classe.” When we were thinking about the project, I was listening to one of their albums, so I imagine it influenced us in some way!
What is your definition of art?
For us, it means primarily creating something with your own hands. Translating ideas into something concrete so that others can benefit from it.
Five words for you closely related to the concept of land (soil).
Humus, biodiversity, layers, water, wood.
Bio
Duo Urtiga was founded in Normandy in 2019 and consists of Paolo Manservisi and Romane Sellier. Starting from artistic studies, the two gradually became interested in sustainable construction, particularly traditional carpentry. They worked as carpenters on several monuments in Normandy until autumn 2022, after which they embarked on a journey to Japan to explore vernacular architecture. Currently, they draw inspiration from Japanese and Norman techniques and forms, which they often incorporate into their projects.
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