The founder of Marseille-based textile studio Œuvres Sensibles talks about her original – and viral – designs for the home
- Who is it? Sarah Espeute is the founder of Œuvres Sensibles, a Marseille-based studio exploring textiles in a poetic and minimalist way
- Why do I want it? In a throwaway culture, Sarah Espeute gives vintage fabrics not only a second life in the form of one-of-a-kind textile creations, but also a main character vibe
- Where can I find it? Œuvres Sensibles is available via the brand’s website
Who is it? Sarah Espeute is known for her embroidered take on tablecloths, napkins and runners inspired by French cuisine and traditions. With just thread, a needle and fabric, the self-taught artist creates hand-stitched plates, cutlery, wine glasses and pretty much everything you can find on a dinner table. Launched in 2021, her own brand and made-to-measure studio Œuvres Sensibles translates to “sensitive pieces”. “For me, it’s essential to create objects that can evoke emotions so that we form a connection with them and stop overconsuming and discarding,” she explains of her ethos.
Her latest textile series of curtain clothing features an oversized shirt, pants inspired by the Japanese noren, and a kimono. “I always strive to come up with personal and unique ideas to stay original,” the Marseille-based artist says of her viral success. The idea had been sitting with her for almost five years before bringing it to life within the context of an exhibition titled A Well-Dressed Apartment in Paris this autumn. Exclusively made from vintage fabrics, her meticulously knotted, woven, pleated, sewn and patchwork creations turned each room into a functional wardrobe, playing dress up with furniture and windows. For Espeute, an apartment without textiles feels lifeless. “It doesn’t take much to enhance a sofa, bed or table: a fabric throw, a bedspread or a placemat can truly transform any space,” she preaches.
Why do I want it? Vintage napkins and antique fabric flea market finds turn into functional, one-of-a-kind artworks through the hands of Espeute and her team, restoring textiles to their rightful place in art and design. “A tablecloth or curtain can be a standalone object, as significant as a designer chair or sofa,” the creative explains, defending their main character vibe. Too often seen as mere discreet accessories, relegated to the background, the last detail to complete a look, the French artist made it her mission to change this common belief, putting the fun in functional by combining craftsmanship with a touch of humour. When asked what her secret is to turn an everyday object into a piece of art, she replies: “To deem importance to my creations, I give them personality, a role, a reason to exist.”
It’s also about a sense of nostalgia, a connection to history. Deeply drawn to natural materials such as linen, cotton and wool – all those that were traditionally crafted in the past – the fabric scraps Espeute usually works with are between 50 and 100 years old, sturdy as ever. “We’ve lost the emotional and lasting value textiles once held,” she remarks, fascinated by the traditions surrounding them, like creating family trousseaux and passing them down through generations. With her work, the artist and designer gives the old a contemporary twist, a second life. “Today, people aren’t sure what to do with [old textiles], as we tend to prefer buying new,” she rounds up. “So they need to be transformed to take on a new purpose.”
Where can I find it? Œuvres Sensibles is available via the brand’s website.
