Mathilde Nivet's paper windows displays

The Christmas windows of Printemps Haussmann in Paris are filled with birds - splendid paper birds of all kinds. Behind this joyful and delicate work is a French "paper artist" increasingly appreciated: Mathilde Nivet. Interview.

HOW LONG DID YOU WORK ON THE PRINTEMPS WINDOWS?

It was a massive project that I spent 6 months on. I received a scenario from Printemps, and I presented models* for some of the windows. I created paper bird sculptures that served as a figures for the thread puppets made by a specialized puppeteer.

The aviary - Printemps Christmas Window - final result © chic.une.vitrine

I also created a couple of birds, like the large wader found in the Ferrero café. I imagined the windows’ backgrounds, created stars and snowflakes that were reproduced in thousands, and invented the Christmas paper typography found throughout Printemps’ Christmas marketing material (such as bags, salesperson badge, etc.).

It was the most significant order I've ever received in terms of number of tasks, and I brought my own style and touch to the entire project. The final result is a big collaboration between several roles. 

The aviary - Printemps Christmas Window - final result © chic.une.vitrine

Christmas Typography by Mathilde Nivet © Mathilde Nivet

IS CREATING DISPLAYS YOUR MAIN ACTIVITY?

It's a significant part of my activity. It used to take up three-quarters of my time, today, it's more like half. I love creating displays, but it's a lot of work and stress, because of after-sales service. The display must last over time, and as long as it is not dismantled, it's a mental burden. So, I'm looking to develop other areas, such as set designs for brand photoshoots.

HOW MANY PROJECTS DO YOU UNDERTAKE PER YEAR?

I complete about fifteen projects per year. Some are small, others very big. But I don't work alone, I have two freelance assistants that work with me. On major projects, we can be a team of up to ten people! Sometimes, our mission is simple production: providing a certain number of flowers, a specific style, a particular color, and other times I have more creative freedom.

HOW DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION?

I look into the brand's history. I study its identity, where it comes from, and its DNA. Often, orders are very direct. But if I have carte blanche, I draw inspiration from nature, vernacular techniques like weaving, and decorative arts. I visit museums a lot. I'm always intrigued by techniques: how people do things and what idea it comes from. I have a fascination with geometric and rhythmic patterns but I also love birds. That's why I was so happy that Le Printemps asked me for this magnificent project!

Le Printemps - Ferrero Christmas - Model © Mathilde Nivet

HOW DO YOU FIND CLIENTS?

Many orders come directly through Instagram or by phone since my contact details are public. But now, many also come through my agent. For the past year, I've had an agent who brings me projects that I might not have gotten on my own.

Project for Hermès © Mathilde Nivet

HOW DID YOU FIND THIS AGENT?

He approached me. He already worked with other artists, photographers, designers... And he was looking for a "paper talent" to complement what he offers to brands. 

"Summer Garden" for Hermès ShangXia © Mathilde Nivet

IS YOUR AGENT'S MISSION PRIMARILY TO FIND CLIENTS?

He also helps me negotiate and progress in areas I don't know how to handle like quotes and contracts for example. He saves me time by leading negotiations on contract conditions, after-sales service, and rework. If a display needs touching up after completion, it's not free. Sometimes, he manages my rights, for example, if I create a set design and it's reproduced for the entire distribution network. As soon as there is a series or multiple representations, there can be rights.

DO SOME CLIENTS CHOOSE PAPER FOR ECOLOGICAL REASONS?

It’s hard to say. It's true that paper aligns with CSR standards; however, it does not comply with fire safety standards! The M1 standard, which requires the use of non-flammable materials, is contradictory with paper. I have more clients than before, that's for sure. I even have to turn down certain orders. But my career is evolving, my reputation too. I don't know if there's a connection with ecology.

HAS YOUR PROFESSION EVOLVED SINCE YOU STARTED?

I started as a "paper artist" 15 years ago. At that time, the term itself did not exist. There was no name for this profession. It was referred to as a "paper specialist decorator." Today it's a full-fledged profession. In brand briefs, they seek a "paper artist" and now there are quite a few of us on the market.

Paperwork © Mathilde Nivet

WHICH DISPLAY ARE YOU HAPPIEST OR PROUDEST OF?

The one I made for Hennessy, in Harrods' windows in London in 2021. The alcohol decanters were covered in a woven leather cover, which inspired me. I imagined a decor of woven paper using a new technique that I’ve wanted to experiment with for a long time. I was very proud of the result, and very pleased too because this work connected my paper work with my studies in textiles. Originally, I have a textile design background, and I learned scenography on my own.

Hennessy Window - Harrods, London © Mathilde Nivet

WHAT IS THE LARGEST ORDER YOU HAVE EVER FULFILLED?

The Dragons I made for Louis Vuitton is my largest order in terms of volume. I had a month to create paper dragons inspired by the world of Nigo Da, the current artistic director of Kenzo.

Louis Vuitton Window © Mathilde Nivet

*Find Mathilde Nivet's models and behind-the-scenes in an exhibition located at Printemps, near the Jacquemus Men boutique.

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