French artist Alexis Bruchon invites audiences to explore a multifaceted journey through his stunning watercolor illustrations in this much-anticipated new exhibition at Philippe Labaune Gallery. With this collection, Bruchon offers an array of dreamlike scenes, each one distinct yet connected by his signature illustrative style. The exhibition brings viewers through an emotional landscape of intricate detail, evoking a feeling of wandering through a world that is both personal and imagined. In his second show with Philippe Labaune Gallery, Bruchon’s intent with this exhibition was not to explore one singular theme, but instead to give his audience an experience. Each piece is a journey in itself, a new interpretation of memory, dreams, and emotions, offering something fresh yet continuously evolving.

Bruchon has always had a deep appreciation for architecture and landscape, but in his work, these are not just buildings or places. They are emotional spaces, imbued with the same complexity and depth as a portrait. “The architecture, the furniture, and the spaces themselves— all have emotion. There are no real faces, no specific people, just silhouettes - the essence of human presence embedded in the fabric of the place itself,” Bruchon shares. Rather than creating from a real location, Bruchon’s places are all born from his imagination and his dreams. He never refers to external images or sketches; when he picks up his pencil, it’s all from what he sees in his mind’s eye. Bruchon’s work is known for its fine detail and intricate execution. While his pieces often have a minimalist composition, they are filled with complex details and layers. Each piece can take weeks to complete, with an unwavering focus on capturing the essence of the worlds he creates. Bruchon embraces imperfections in his work, saying, “Mistakes stay in the final pieces, they are quintessential to the drawing. It’s all part of remembering the dreams.”

The influence of cultures such as Japanese, French, Italian, and Middle Eastern can be seen in his use of composition, style, and color. He explains, “I’m drawn to flat images and compositions without a vanishing point. It’s part of the Japanese influence, but it’s also about creating something that feels more like a dream—a place that exists outside of time.” Additionally, Bruchon’s work channels the elegance of past time periods, creating a dialogue between the past and present, and offering a reflection on the evolving nature of society. While Bruchon’s works evoke the romance of past time periods, they often convey an underlying sense of angst rather than pure joy. This ongoing conversation between history and the present moment is central to Bruchon’s philosophy, as he believes the past shapes and informs the present. Bruchon’s art continues to captivate audiences worldwide, inviting them to explore the boundaries between memory, imagination, and reality. This exhibition demonstrates both Bruchon’s growth as an artist and his continued exploration of new creative endeavors. With larger works, more intricate details, and a wider emotional scope, Bruchon invites his audience to step into his dream world.