François Gilles, an experienced ornamental sculptor, leads the wood ornamentation training. Awarded the Best Apprentice in France, a graduate of the Boulle School, and holding a doctorate in art history, he works on both historical and contemporary projects.

At the end of the training, the trainee will have mastered:

• Introduction to traditional wood carving techniques
• Introduction to the inherent qualities of wood depending on the species
• Acquisition of the fundamental carving techniques
• Introduction to the composition of a paneling element

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of ornamentation during this one-week training course, specially designed for those passionate about creativity and elegance. Under the expert guidance of François Gilles, a renowned ornamental sculptor, this unique experience will allow you to discover the secrets of wood ornamentation.

During this immersive week, students will be guided through the practical techniques and essential processes of this artisanal craft. They will have the opportunity to create their own wooden ornaments, exploring the patterns, shapes, and details that make ornamentation so rich.

Working closely with François Gilles, trainees will learn to translate their creativity into concrete ornamental pieces.

François GILLES is a wood sculptor and art historian. A graduate of the Boulle school, best apprentice in France in sculpture, a former student of the École Normale Supérieure (ENS Cachan), an associate professor in arts and crafts and a doctoral student in art history, he teaches design at the Olivier de Serres school (Paris 15th) and works for contemporary decoration and heritage in his workshop in Yonne. His historical research focuses on the great sculpted decorations of the Ancien Régime and attempts to draw a portrait of the actors who created these decorations in the 17th and 18th centuries, but also of those who destroyed, saved, or collected them in the 19th and 20th centuries. As part of this versatility, he regularly works with museum institutions, and in particular for the Palace of Versailles, where he restored, with his colleague Charles Boulnois, the decoration of the Grand Cabinet of the Dauphin (1747).

• Workshops equipped with professional machines, classroom, and multipurpose room
• Materials provided
• Individual and group work
• Workshop work
• Introduction to the operation of tools, introduction to their maintenance and safe use
• Technical and theoretical content, and a professional approach to the skills taught
• Active participation and experimentation of participants are encouraged

• Individual and group interviews
• Design file to be completed (frame provided)
• Acquisition of basic carpentry techniques
• End-of-training self-assessment in the form of a group presentation
• Half-day attendance sheet
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa