HAVING studied in Ecoule Boulle and landscape architecture in Paris, French artist Camille Thibert has since been drawn to nature, crafting contemporary earth works. She continues to do so, leading her to the Philippines—particularly in Cebu City—unveiling her first-ever solo exhibit in the country called “INstant” last May 7 at Qube Gallery, The Crossroads Mall, Banilad, Cebu City.

“For me, it’s also in my way of life. I want to live close to nature and talk about that in my work,” shared Camille about the main inspiration of “INstant.” Using mixed media on reclaimed wood like gmelina or acacia, she taps into nature as medium and humans as her subjects, incorporating the drilling technique to her works. These portraits were created during her stay in the town of Samboan, Cebu.

“I am really familiar with the Philippines. For a long time, I have relatives here in Cebu. Last year, I came here for one month. I began to make portraits from my Filipino friends and I wanted to continue it and spend more time here to make a full connection because it’s a different inspiration for me; different materials. It’s really interesting for me to stay here,” she added.

Her subjects are the people she met during her five-month stay in the city, often drawn by their expressions, their eyes and way of life. “For me people here are living in the present moment.”

Through these pieces, she wishes to unveil the union of human and nature, and by doing so, encourage the audience to choose a conscious way of life.

The “INstant” exhibit will run until May 25.