What Drives Ateliers SP’s Approach to Marquetry?

Marianne Barrier, a specialist in rye straw marquetry with a design master’s degree from Beaux-Arts and training at Lison de Caunes, brings a modern, sustainable vision to Ateliers SP. Influenced by Art Deco, she blends traditional techniques with contemporary design. We spoke with her to gain insight into her vision and the future direction of straw marquetry at Ateliers SP.


Q: How would you define Ateliers SP’s artistic vision, particularly in marquetry?

Marianne Barrier: Ateliers SP bridges the gap between the past and the future. Inspired by traditional techniques, we strive to apply them to resolutely contemporary objects, particularly in the field of straw marquetry. The example of the folding screen is characteristic of our vision: reinventing a classic object by giving it a modern form and applying straw in a contemporary way.

Q: What does Art Deco mean to Ateliers SP? How do you balance paying homage to classic Art Deco with moving the craft forward?

Marianne Barrier: The Art Deco style took off before the First World War, at a time when the swirls and organic forms of Art Nouveau dominated. It consisted of a return to classical rigour: symmetry and classical orders (often highly stylised). Decoration, which was still very much present in general, no longer had the freedom it had enjoyed in the 1900s; it was strictly controlled by its creators and its design was inspired by Cubist geometrisation.

This style corresponds very well to straw marquetry, as worked in the Ateliers SP. However, we aspire to broaden this vision by developing new techniques that are flexible and rounded, as with the ‘cascade’ table. Art Deco is a source of inspiration on which we build our own style.

Q: What aspects of marquetry do you think appeal most to collectors in terms of artistry and investment?

Marianne Barrier: Straw marquetry has long been synonymous with ancient techniques. The modern and innovative aspect of unique pieces seems to be popular today with a discerning clientele.

Q: What are your aspirations for Ateliers SP in the field of marquetry over the next years?

Marianne Barrier: We strive to be at the forefront of innovation by offering new techniques and combining straw with other prestigious materials such as mother-of-pearl, leather and metal. We spend a lot of time on research and will soon be able to present some unique pieces.

Q: How do you see marquetry evolving, and what role would you like Ateliers SP to play in its development and transmission?

Marianne Barrier: As with many other areas of expertise, we are convinced that the future lies in collaboration. By pooling rare materials and techniques, we can achieve a new level of innovation that has never been seen before.

Q: Where would you like to see the public appreciation and market for marquetry go in the future?

Marianne Barrier: There is already curiosity and enthusiasm among a discerning clientele. We can only hope that this will grow.