In Brest, he revives old Breton furniture with modern techniques

On the occasion of the launch of his creative workshop, Maison Richou, Brest artist and self-taught Paul Masson was invited by the Le Comœdia gallery in Brest to present his works, Thursday December 12, 2024. Grandson of Jean Richou, Paul Masson comes from a family of furniture merchants from Brest. Former general manager of the Fly store, he has continued the family tradition for a long time.

Then, in 2022, he decided to no longer just sell furniture, but also to create it. This new adventure was obvious to him. “The idea germinated two years ago,” he explains. Thursday evening, I presented my creations for the first time.”

Gradual disappearance

Paul Masson despairs of the gradual disappearance of Breton furniture and wishes to restore its letters of nobility. Its originality is to offer a second life to the furniture which, not so long ago, decorated the living rooms of Brittany. With his deep-rooted passion and infinite precision, the artist designs an astonishing alliance: ancient works combine with modern materials and techniques (paintings with special effects, bright colors, nails, LEDs and transformation processes, such as airblasting, low pressure sandblasting). A way to restore youth to furniture without distorting it.

A workshop near Kergaradec

This artisanal know-how coupled with contemporary artistic inspiration can be discovered in its creative workshop Maison Richou, located in the industrial zone of Kergaradec. This new space celebrates the passion for Breton furniture that drives Paul Masson, a family transmission, and the artist’s vision, between tradition and modernity.

Practical

Maison Richou workshop, at 9, rue Alain-Le Berre, in Brest. New Paul Masson website: maison-richou.com