Manuel has traveled a path marked by dedication and passion since his childhood. From a very young age, around nine years old, he began drawing and sculpting, participating in workshops, and creating at home. At the age of twelve, his destiny was somehow set when he discovered the Raggio Technical Schools, where one of the specialties was goldsmithing. It was at that moment he knew this was what he wanted for his life.
Manuel's influences are deep and varied. The mastery of Albrecht Dürer's engravings and the surreal imagination of Salvador Dalí left an indelible mark on his style. At school, he immersed himself in European, Florentine, and Roman ornamentation, elements deeply present in his work. His training at the Raggio Technical Schools, between 2000 and 2006, not only provided him with technical knowledge but also recognition, winning two engraving awards. This initial success led him to the workshop of Juan Carlos Pallarols, where he worked for seventeen years, perfecting his art and honing his technique.
Manuel's creative process is meticulous and thoughtful. It all starts with an idea that transforms into a sketch, a crucial stage where every detail of the work is planned. However, often, or almost always, the piece evolves during its creation, adapting and changing, adding an element of surprise and beauty to the process. This evolution is part of the charm and uncertainty of his work.
One of the most significant moments in his career was setting up his first workshop, a personal space where he could unleash his creativity. Among all his works, one stands out with special affection: a guitar front for Fender Custom Shop, made of aluminum and adorned with engraved ornaments. This piece not only represents his technical skill but also his ability to infuse art into everyday objects.
Another memorable moment was presenting an engraved pickguard to Roger Waters during his last tour in Argentina. This was particularly special since Roger Waters is an idol for Manuel.
The path of art is not without challenges. In the middle of the creative process, doubts can arise, but Manuel has learned to trust his ability and persevere until the work takes shape. The struggle to keep the tradition of ancient goldsmithing alive in the face of mass production is another constant challenge. However, a growing appreciation for handmade and personalized items gives him hope and strength to continue.
Each finished piece is a living work for Manuel. It is hard for him to part with them, but modern photography allows him to carry a record of his work, a tangible memory of his dedication. He defines success not only in terms of personal achievements but also in the exchange and learning with other jewelry artists. He highly values interpersonal relationships and has a great desire and curiosity to meet as many jewelry artists as possible.
For those aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Manuel offers sincere advice: it is a difficult but beautiful path, full of constant learning and new techniques to discover. Each work is an opportunity to innovate and improve. Inspiration comes from everywhere, especially nature, and although some days are more dedicated to routine tasks like filing and polishing, these are fundamental to the composition of a piece of jewelry.
Manuel's workshop is a creative refuge, where he begins the day preparing mate and organizing the work area, a routine that centers and prepares him for the day. Goldsmithing is a solitary job, but as mentioned earlier, Manuel highly values interpersonal relationships, and it is always better if he can work with colleagues, whether on a joint project or each on their own work but together in the space. Criticism, both positive and negative, is seen as part of a continuous dialogue with his clients, reflecting the understanding and interpretation of their wishes.
Balancing personal life with his career is a constant challenge, a dance between the passion for his work and the need for leisure time. Yet creation is for him a form of meditation, a process he cannot conceive of abandoning.
Manuel finds peace and inspiration in quiet places like parks, where he sketches. His education, both formal and informal, has been fundamental to his development, with teachers who taught him more than techniques: they taught him to flow with life and commit deeply to his art.
Manuel Chapuis' art is an extension of his being, a manifestation of his passion, perseverance, and love for creation. Through each piece, each challenge overcome, an artist dedicated to beauty and expression is revealed, whose work will continue to resonate with those who appreciate the depth and detail of his craft.
