Richianny Ratovo, a Malagasy plastic artist, has been awarded the fifth edition of the Paritana contemporary art prize with her work "La Parenthèse". She will showcase her art at the Institut français de Madagascar (IFM) in October. Her work combines painting and pyrography on leather, a material she is familiar with due to her family's background in craftsmanship. Ratovo's art is characterized by its unique blend of figurative and abstract elements.
This is not Ratovo's first participation in Paritana, having been selected among the ten nominees in 2018 and 2019. She views her previous experiences as valuable learning opportunities that helped her grow as an artist. In the past, Ratovo focused on drawing, but after facing challenges, she took a break and explored different techniques, including pyrography on leather. Her work is now marked by a distinctive style that incorporates various materials.
Ratovo's journey as an artist was influenced by her personal experiences, including health issues faced by her mother. This challenging period sparked a sense of resilience in her, leading to her participation in a collective exhibition in Toamasina. The event turned out to be a transformative experience, allowing her to find happiness despite the difficulties she was facing. This newfound sense of joy is reflected in her art.
Ratovo's artistic process involves taking photographs of people on the street and inventing stories about them. She then uses these stories as inspiration for her work, often incorporating abstract backgrounds and figurative elements. Her use of leather as a medium allows her to experiment with different textures and techniques. Ratovo is currently working on a new technique involving scratching the leather to add depth and volume to her art.
For her work "La Parenthèse", Ratovo combines painting and pyrography on leather with other materials such as mud, wood, and clay. Her artistic style is characterized by its eclecticism and willingness to experiment. After a three-month residency at the Cité internationale de Paris, Ratovo will showcase her work at the IFM in October. This exhibition promises to be an exciting opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience her unique vision.
Ratovo's background in a family of artisans has undoubtedly influenced her artistic style. Her use of leather, in particular, reflects her familiarity with the material. The different types of leather she uses, such as sheep, goat, or zebu, each have their specific characteristics, allowing her to experiment with various textures and effects.
Ratovo's artistic ambitions are marked by a desire for perfection. She believes that her work still lacks depth and volume, and she is continually striving to improve her craft. With her upcoming exhibition at the IFM, Ratovo is poised to share her artistic vision with a wider audience, offering a glimpse into her creative world.
Key points
- Richianny Ratovo wins Paritana contemporary art prize with "La Parenthèse"
- Ratovo's art combines painting and pyrography on leather
- Exhibition to be held at IFM in October after Paris residency
