Through a series of portraits, the artist from Nice, Edith Faraut, reinvents the myth of the local heroine, Catherine Ségurane. A unique approach combining history and creation.
The exhibition “Je suis Catarina de Nissa”, at the Lou Babazouk 2 Gallery, opens its doors today until August 24th. It highlights the local heroine, Catherine Ségurane, through the eyes and brushstrokes of Édith Faraut. A lawyer by profession and a painter in parallel, she offers a vibrant and colorful reinterpretation of this emblematic figure in the history of Nice. In her studio, she invites models to embody the figure of “Catarina”, so that each can take on a part of her story. The exhibition opening will be held this Tuesday at 6 PM, in the presence of Jean-Luc Gagliolo, the delegate for Education, Culture in school, Books, Combating illiteracy, Niçoise Identity, and Leisure for all.
What does your exhibition consist of?
The exhibition I am presenting showcases a series of 25 canvases, enriched by collages and paintings on paper. In total, there are about forty works that celebrate the iconic figure of Catherine Ségurane. I also wanted to add an explanatory text to recall her act of bravery, a story unknown to many, dating back to a distant time. In 1543, Catherine Ségurane repelled the Turkish invader by hitting a flag-bearer with her laundry beater. Some accounts even mention that she showed her backside to the assailants, which made them flee. Finally, I ensured that the exhibition also addresses the people of Nice, by subtitling all texts in the Niçoise language, to strengthen the link with this local figure.
What techniques do you use for your canvases?
My works are primarily created in oil, a technique I particularly love. Additionally, I used acrylic for a painting of an eight-year-old girl who agreed to pose for me. I also work on paper, for my painting and collages, thus exploring different textures and effects.
Why did you choose Catherine Ségurane as the central subject of the exhibition?
I had already undertaken a small educational project with middle school students on the great figures of Nice. I was immediately drawn to the figure of Catherine Ségurane. So when I learned that there was a commemoration in her honor, I wanted to pay tribute to her in my own way. For me, Catherine Ségurane is a feminist icon of Nice. She embodies a woman of the people who knew how to resist and fight for her city with courage and determination. My intention was to make her story universal, to ensure that even those who do not know her perceive her as a powerful and inspiring figure.
How did you manage to represent her in your works?
I wanted to represent Catherine Ségurane in a multitude of ways. To do this, I worked with 26 models—three professionals and 23 amateurs—all residing in Nice and aged between 8 and 73 years. I gave each of them the freedom to choose how they wanted to embody Catherine. Each model was thus able to own the character in her own way. In parallel, I also created my own interpretations. The result is a series of very diverse portraits, all united by the common thread of representing Catherine. My objective was for Catherine to be embodied and elevated through each model.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
My inspiration primarily comes from the conversations I have with my loved ones. It also comes from my reading and from current events. These elements nurture my work and help bring my creations to life.
Why did you choose painting?
I discovered painting after my father’s death, who passed away at the age of 53. At 52, I felt the call of the brushes, and I decided to start. I then created my studio, “Painting the Rest of One’s Life”, in tribute to my father. In the beginning, I doubted my abilities, but I ultimately managed to turn this sad ordeal into something positive. For me, painting is more than a passion or a hobby; it is a need. It is an activity I can’t be without; it has become essential to my life. I might even leave my other profession as a lawyer if I had to choose between the two.
