Maik Hahn for Bonnet Magazine - Dec 27 2024

An Artistic Odyssey: Exploring the Intersection of Craftsmanship, Cars, and Creativity with Stéphane Dufour

Blending passion, precision, and artistry, Stéphane Dufour has redefined the way we see cars—not just as vehicles, but as sculptural masterpieces. From hand-sculpting iconic models to collaborating with the prestigious Petersen Museum, his journey is one of dedication to craftsmanship and an unyielding connection to the beauty of design. Dive into an inspiring conversation about creativity, cars, and the future of automotive artistry.

Maik: You began your journey as an artist in 1991. What initially drew you to focus on automobiles as a central theme in your work?

Stéphane: Well, I grew up with cars around as my grandfather and dad owned a body shop. That was my playground.

Maik: You’ve mentioned that you don’t work with detailed plans, preferring to study cars and photograph them extensively. How does this intuitive approach shape your connection to each piece you create?

Stéphane: The fact that I want to make a personal and interpretative version of a model. I won’t copy and paste the original model, I use the rulers only for scale or fixing some symmetry, or else the whole concept would be biased. The goal is to create something different, an idea that is evolving in my mind until I’m satisfied with the result. I don’t plan, I do everything spontaneously. Sometimes it works; sometimes it doesn’t.

Maik: You’ve expressed strong views against using 3D printers in your sculptures. What do you think is lost when technology replaces hands-on craftsmanship in art?

Stéphane: I’m not against new technologies. 3D printing and CNC are great tools for industrial applications. Maybe some sculptors use them for their work, but I personally wanted to use the ancestral method to sculpt, all by hand. I have to feel the materials between my fingers, closing my eyes to feel the shape. Eyes and touch are essential as a sculptor. As a result, the pieces look and feel very organic. Machines don’t have sensitivity.

Maik: You’re currently working on a significant Lancia Stratos model. What excites you most about capturing the essence of such an iconic and unconventional car?

Stéphane: This concept car is just amazingly symbolic to me. It’s the perfect example of how a car should be imagined: no mechanical or technical obstacles. Just pure design, and it drives! It’s something between a space vehicle and a bird or fish. Extremely organic, well-balanced. As a child, I was literally living in my own futuristic and fantasy world, submerged with weird things like sounds, photos, books, toys, etc. The Zero was one of those weird things. I’ll let you imagine how I felt when I saw and touched it! Today I’m really grateful to finally be able to work on it.

Maik: Beyond the Lancia Stratos, are there any other exciting or unexpected projects you’re currently working on that you’d like to share?

Stéphane: I’d love to, although since it’s unexpected, I can’t really share yet. Haha! But I do have some ideas in my safe (brain) that seem to be unique and amazing. I’ll be excited to show them to the public in the next few months or years.

Maik: The Petersen Museum is one of the most prestigious automotive institutions in the world. What has this collaboration brought to your work, and are there any projects you’re particularly proud of from this partnership?

Stéphane: The Petersen Museum is down the street; I’m so lucky. Beyond this fact, yes, it’s an institution for car and architecture enthusiasts from all over the world. Collaborating with the Petersen is a huge privilege, and it undoubtedly brought me more recognition here in the U.S. We’ll keep working together on some cool projects in the near future. Also, it’s the only location where my work is displayed and offered for sale all year long.

Maik: Next year, you’ll be dividing your time between California and France. How do you think this dual lifestyle will influence your artistic vision and the way you approach your work?

Stéphane: I’m not sure it will influence my creativity; it’s more for logistical reasons: shipping, exhibitions, etc. But most importantly, it will bring me a good balance in my life. I need to get back to my roots sometimes.

Maik: France and California each have distinct automotive and artistic heritages. How do these two environments shape your creative perspective, and what elements from each inspire you most?

Stéphane: I have all my inspiration coming from nature: ocean, desert, forest…It’s a powerful source of energy for my work. Far away from car events. I know it sounds a bit strange, but it’s true, and I guess France and California suit perfectly my way of imagining things. Personal Connection: Cars often evoke strong emotions and memories.

Maik: Do you have a personal favorite car that has a special meaning to you, either from your childhood or your career?

Stéphane: Definitely, my grandfather’s old Mercedes 250 SE coupe (designed by Paul Bracq). I have great memories from my childhood when I was traveling on the rear seats—the sound of the inline 6, the comfort. This car has always been in the family, and hopefully, I’ll drive it soon again.

Maik: You’ve expressed a desire to dedicate more time to painting again. How does painting offer a different form of expression compared to sculpture, and what themes or ideas do you hope to explore on canvas?

Stéphane: Due to the time-consuming process of sculpting, I haven’t been able to draw or paint much for the past 20 years (OMG, time flies…). Somehow, I miss drawing; it’s how I started my career as an artist. I’ll be back to the pencils and brushes very soon. I need to organize…

Maik: Looking Ahead: Are there any specific cars, eras, or projects you’re particularly excited to explore in the future? How do you see your work evolving in the next phase of your career?

Stéphane: There are a few cars I want to work on. But what excites me the most is to try new styles, techniques, and materials. And besides cars, I also love architecture. To be continued!