Selfie on Oak Log — Digital by Arnaud Quercy

About This Artwork

This carved self-portrait emerges from dialogue with found material rather than predetermined design. Working with an oak log's natural grain and form, Quercy transformed the wood into a self-portrait that amplifies facial asymmetries—eyes at different heights, elongated proportions, a semi-detached ear. The wood's structure suggested possibilities as the carving progressed, with knots becoming features and grain patterns emphasizing irregularities. Part of the Untamed Creations collection, the piece represents free artistic expression outside systematic constraints.

The sculpture refuses the idealizing tendency of traditional portraiture. Where classical approaches seek harmony and proportion, this carving exaggerates asymmetry and unconventional features with confident self-awareness. The result radiates assurance through honest observation—a face that owns its irregularities. Self-derision and humility operate through this choice, as amplifying what others might minimize requires both humor about one's appearance and refusal of vanity. The oak's warmth softens what could be harsh self-assessment, lending dignity to the amplified imperfections.

The Untamed Creations collection sits outside Quercy's systematic chromesthetic translation work, allowing material to determine outcomes without codified rules. Where the Synesthetic Explorations follow explicit structures mapping the circle of fifths to color relationships, this piece allowed the oak log itself to guide the carving process. The artist's willingness to play without systematic constraints produced a work that documents the collaborative relationship between maker and material.

The work includes certificate of authenticity 20211231-0103 and was created in France in 2021.