Anouchka Potdevin – Metalworker, Metal Sculptor

Brittany – 1975

Anouchka, a metal artisan and sculptor, developed her expertise through an unconventional path. Though she initially focused on photography, her fascination with Art Nouveau ultimately guided her to the world of metal She then began her apprenticeship with a master craftsman, earning her metalwork vocational certificate in 1999. To further develop her design and metal skills, she studied design at École Pivaut in Nantes. With this dual expertise, she launched her own business in 2001.

In 2013, Anouchka made her mark in the art of steel. It was at Maison & Objet that she first showcased “La Cage”, a piece that quickly became her signature. This iconic seating has since found its place in renowned luxury venues across Paris, Saint-Barthélemy, and Las Vegas, and has even made appearances on movie sets. Possessing a distinctive touch, Anouchka masterfully transforms cold, raw materials into refined and delicate creations. Currently, she crafts bespoke metal pieces and limited editions for a global clientele of brands, architects, decorators, and private clients worldwide. She also collaborates with other artisans on behalf of renowned luxury brands such as Moët & Chandon, Guerlain, and Cartier.

2001 – Laureate for Lalique – Comité Colbert

Research and innovation

Anouchka exclusively sources metal from French suppliers, embedding upcycling into her creative process. She transforms metal scraps, like cans, into intricate pieces such as flowers. She lives by the principle that every piece of matter, no matter how small, holds a story and awaits a second act. This philosophy guides her to events where artists craft live from waste materials, then sell their creations at accessible prices.

Transmission

Sharing her passion has always been central to Anouchka’s work. She has been a regular participant in JEMA and will be intervening with 4th-grade classes in 2026, in collaboration with the La Source Garouste association. In 2014, she hosted a student from the Olivier de Serres school for a three-month internship. Since then, she has supervised and continues to supervise many interns in her workshop. In 2022, she took on a metal craftsman for a year-long apprenticeship. Today, this former apprentice, now an independent metalworker and welder, frequently collaborates with Anouchka, demonstrating the success of this skill transmission.

Anouchka is seeking support from the Fondation Rémy Cointreau for ventilated respiratory equipment. This equipment is crucial for mitigating safety and hygiene risks inherent in metalworking activities.