Animals have been an inspiration for sculptors across different art movements. The surrealist, nature-inspired sculptures of Les Lalanne feature many animal representations that incorporate metals and other materials. This French artist duo focused on producing symbolic recreations of animals like hippos, apes, and various birds. Here is more information about the duo’s art and the symbolism in their animal sculptures:

Les Lalanne’s Symbolic Body of Work

Sculptural symbolism occurs when an abstract idea is represented through allegory and personification. Some of the sculptures that Les Lalanne created were simply symbolic of the beauty of life and living creatures. Francois-Xavier Lalanne and Claude Lalanne were famous for their bronze sculptures that took the form of animals and plants and could be used as furniture and decoration. The duo displayed their work in various galleries around the world. They also displayed their sculptures in public places where people were free to view and touch the pieces.

François-Xavier Lalanne created functional sculptures of animals, particularly sheep, which became his signature creation. His sculptures were often practical and beautiful. His iconic “Mouton de Laine,” or Woolly Sheep, is a functional stool covered in sheepskin. This stool combines utility with aesthetics. Claude Lalanne created intricate sculptures inspired by plant forms. Her sculptures were highly detailed and inspired by the intricacies of the natural world. Some of her most notable pieces include fantastical tables shaped like ginkgo leaves and bronze-cast mirrors adorned with whimsical foliage and creatures. 

One of the duo’s famous installations is the “Jardin d’Hiver,” or Winter Garden. It is a surrealist garden populated by many whimsical animal sculptures, representing the human desire to explore and discover. This art installation was immersive and showed the duo’s ability to transform spaces into enchanted landscapes with sculptures from various points in their careers. In these carefully curated environments, audiences could interact with the art directly to derive personal meaning from it. 

The Purpose of Symbolism in Les Lalanne’s Animal Sculptures

The animal sculptures created by the Lalanne were symbolic and carried deeper meanings. Some of the symbolic themes in these pieces include whimsy, surrealism, nature, and functionality. Les Lalanne created whimsical portrayals of animals that inspired fantasy and lightheartedness. The whimsical and humorous nature of the animals challenged the conventional, more serious expectations of art that were prevalent at the time of their creation.

The animals’ presentation as fantastical, otherworldly beings showcased the artists’ ability to redefine our perceptions of the ordinary. Les Lalanne’s sculptures also emphasized nature’s beauty. The sculptures’ connection to the environment reminds the audience of the significance of the natural world. They encourage the audience to see the relationship between humanity and the broader ecosystem.

Many of Claude and Francois-Xavier’s animal sculptures serve functional purposes. Creating sculptures that have practical uses suggests that art can be integrated into everyday life. The functional and public aspect of their animal sculptures symbolizes the idea that art should not be confined to galleries but that everyone should use it to enhance and enrich their daily experiences.         

See Les Lalanne’s Artwork in a Commercial Gallery

The symbolism in Les Lalanne’s animal sculptures offers a profound way to connect with nature and creative expression. Their whimsical and playful creations challenged the boundaries of conventional art, and through surrealism, they transformed ordinary animals into extraordinary art. Claude and Francois-Xavier’s work showed that artists, tradespeople, and other creators can market their work and services to earn a living while doing what they love. Their public art installations also inspired people to bring art into their homes and other everyday environments. Visit a reputable commercial gallery today to view some of the duo’s symbolic and fantastical work.