His creation, a sculpture-like vase with the features of African masks with Art Deco influences, is the reflection of his bicultural background between France and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Inspired by his roots, Gims wanted to “pay tribute to Africa” with his “Origine” vase, in a limited edition of 8. With an almost lyrical interpretation and pure contemporary lines, Gims highlights his artistic influences to create a hollow blue vase, 56 cm tall.
With the stroke of a pen, he shared his African origins with Daum, thus allowing the craftsmen of the modelling atelier of the crystal manufacturer to use the finest tool of man, namely, their own two hands, to work the clay to build the general shapes and to sketch the lines and arches that make up the masks.
The vase represents 4 masks with subtle contrasts offering a new perspective with each viewing angle, through the play of different symmetries and rhythms according to the details. The upper part of the work reveals an African headdress in a freer style, recalling a piece of fabric in the wind. The body of the vase is connected by a patinated bronze ring with an irregular pattern that recalls again the work of the hand. More than 7 months were required for the birth of this work of art in crystal paste. The ocean blue chosen by Gims is a colour offering a very delicate gradation between the different thickness of the material. From the bottom to the top, the colour lightens and increases the sensation of height of this sculpture-vase. The polished finish accentuates the strong lines and adds shine and relief. With its exceptional know-how, the Daum crystal manufacturer invites itself in the most authentic way into the universe of the multi-talented artist Gims.