In the Frame: Ingrid Donat
The French artist and designer renowned for her distinctive bronze sculptures draws inspiration from Brancusi, the Atlantic Ocean and ancient Mayan patterns, amongst other diverse sources. Donat is currently the subject of a solo exhibition in New York, and several works of her exquisite furnishings and lighting are offered in Christie’s December design sales
Left: Ingrid Donat photographed by Yves Duronsoy, in her previous home in Villennes. Right: Ingrid Donat (b. 1957), ‘Caryatides’ Chaise Longue, 2001. Patinated bronze with canvas upholstery, 37 ⅜ x 55 ½ x 27 ½ in (95 x 141 x 70 cm). Estimate: $20,000-30,000. Offered in MICA: THE COLLECTION OF MICA ERTEGUN on 13 December 2024 at Christie’s in New York
What ritual or routine keeps you going?
Ingrid Donat: ‘My process is a ritual in itself, deeply rooted in the time I spend in my atelier in Mitry-Mory, on the outskirts of Paris, with my exceptional team of craftsmen. These moments of creation are invaluable, as everyone contributes their expertise to help bring my visions to life. The remarkable combination of skills and excellence within this team allows us, as artists, to imagine the most ambitious pieces and tackle even the most improbable technical challenges.’
What work of art made you see things differently?
ID: ‘There have been several. African and Oceanic Art has had a profound impact on how I perceive design and form. Art Deco was another revelation, with creators like André Groult, whose furniture seamlessly combines elegance and functionality. Finally, the works of Armand-Albert Rateau, especially Jeanne Lanvin’s bathroom, taught me to see design as an immersive experience, where every detail contributes to a cohesive and timeless aesthetic.’
Ingrid Donat (b. 1957), ‘Caryatides’ Chaise Longue, 2001, in a guest room of Mica Ertegun’s New York townhouse. Patinated bronze with canvas upholstery, 37 ⅜ x 55 ½ x 27 ½ in (95 x 141 x 70 cm). Estimate: $20,000-30,000. Offered in MICA: THE COLLECTION OF MICA ERTEGUN on 13 December 2024 at Christie’s in New York
What are you working on currently?
ID: ‘I recently completed two new bronze commodes that are part of my ongoing exploration of texture and surface through the language of the commode form: Commode Maya, with surface patterns that appear alive, is inspired by the intricate art of the ancient Mayans. Commode Tatoo, which exudes a geometric, almost primal energy has square patterns that evoke reptilian scales or perhaps the mythical armour of a dragon. Along with Commode Ooni, which premiered earlier this year in Paris, all three works are currently on view in a solo exhibition at Carpenter’s Workshop Gallery in New York.’
What one thing do you always do, or look forward to, when visiting New York?
ID: ‘The energy of New York is incomparable. I love walking through the streets, especially in SoHo and the galleries in Chelsea. I also look forward to reconnecting with my New York friends; their conversations and perspectives are as enriching as the city itself.’
Ingrid Donat at work in her Mitry-Mory atelier in France
Which artist or designer do you wish you knew more about?
ID: ‘I would have loved to meet Eileen Gray. Her visionary approach to design and architecture, blending modernism with an almost sculptural sensibility, has always fascinated me. Her ability to transcend disciplines — moving seamlessly from furniture to interiors and architecture — reflects a creative freedom that deeply inspires me. Works like her iconic E-1027 house embody timeless elegance and a thoughtful approach to space and functionality. Meeting her would have been an incredible opportunity to exchange ideas about our shared passions for materials and form.’
Ingrid Donat (b. 1957), ‘Caryatides et Scarifications, Grand Modèle’ Bench, 2001. Patinated bronze and original fabric upholstery, 35 ⅜ x 66 ⅞ x 24 in (90 x 170 x 61 cm). Estimate: $50,000-70,000. Offered in Design on 11 December 2024 at Christie’s in New York
What artists or designers are you watching right now?
ID: ‘Right now I’m particularly drawn to Nacho Carbonell’s work, especially his exhibition Escaping Forward in London, which I absolutely love. I’ve also acquired pieces from Studio Molen by Frederik Molenschot for my home and continue to follow the unique creativity of Roger Herman.’
Last gift you gave?
ID: ‘I recently gave a bronze lamp to a master artisan who worked at the very first foundry with which I collaborated. He dedicated over 30 years of his life to bringing my creations into reality and recently retired. This gift was a heartfelt tribute to his exceptional craftsmanship and the bond we formed through decades of shared artistry.’
.jpg?maxWidth=3200&maxHeight=3200)
Ingrid Donat (b. 1957), pair of ‘ficelle’ table lamps, 2002. Patinated bronze with paper lampshades, height: 80 cm (311⁄2 in). Estimate: €50,000-70,000. Offered in MICA: THE COLLECTION OF MICA ERTEGUN from 4-18 December 2024 at Christie’s Online
Your favourite view, anywhere in the world?
ID: ‘The Atlantic Ocean. Its vastness, power and ever-changing colours are a constant source of inspiration for me. Standing by the shore, I feel a profound connection to nature’s rhythm and energy — it fuels my creativity and offers a sense of limitless possibility.’
Most memorable show you’ve seen this year?
ID: ‘Brancusi, l'art ne fait que que commencer at the Centre Pompidou in Paris was a truly magnificent moment. The way Brancusi’s works were displayed, especially with the recreation of his studio, left a lasting impression on me. It was a deeply moving experience, where the purity of his forms and the elegance of the presentation highlighted the timeless beauty of his work.’
Sign up for Going Once, a weekly newsletter delivering our top stories and art market insights to your inbox