Eugène Riconneaus is an acclaimed creative director and circular design specialist, is dedicated to ocean conservation. Raised on France's Atlantic coast, his journey spans diverse landscapes and cultures. Living and working between Aquitaine and Paris, he draws deep inspiration from skateboard and underground culture.
Riconneaus rose to prominence at the age of 19, collaborating with ARTE and director-photographer Larry Clark early in his career. He delved into the esoteric, erotic, and forbidden dimensions of eternal adolescence through painting and photography. His keen eye for detail captured the Parisian skateboarding scene, focusing on the intricate imprints left by skate wheels on the city's streets, which he aptly named "scar of the city." These enigmatic traces became a recurring motif in his work, often layered over photographs of urban landscapes and his peers.
Innovatively using his own skateboard wheels as brushes, Riconneaus transformed his canvas into a reversed half-pipe shape inspired by skateboarding ramps. This bold departure from conventional artistic techniques invites viewers to explore his paintings from various angles, immersing themselves in a dynamic visual experience.
Riconneaus's artistic journey is a testament to his commitment to innovation and creativity. His latest project, an eco-friendly sneaker made from recycled ocean materials, represents his vision for sustainable footwear. In addition to the sneakers, he creates stunning artwork using these materials, showcasing his unique talent and passion for sustainable design.
As a creative director and designer, Eugène Riconneaus infuses his women's footwear collection with a vivid embodiment of femininity. Each creation echoes a rebellious spirit, a seductive allure, and an artistic flair, blending sensitivity with a playful edge. His designs are a tapestry of these dynamic elements, bringing to life a bold and unique vision of womanhood. His innovative ideas have captured the attention of prominent names like Supreme NYC and celebrities such as Monica Bellucci, Pamela Anderson, Grace Jones, etc. His work has also been featured in top concept stores like Colette and Joyce,10 Corso Como.
During the lockdown period, Riconneaus's awareness of ocean pollution grew as he witnessed the wave of litter washing onto beaches in his hometown. This newfound focus on environmental conservation inspired him to incorporate recycled ocean materials and his own patented material into his artwork, culminating in a groundbreaking projection at New York's prestigious Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in September 2022.
Riconneaus's journey is characterized by an unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of art, design, and environmental consciousness. With each project, he continues to challenge the status quo and redefine the intersection of creativity and purpose. His website serves as a testament to his journey—a culmination of experiences, insights, and artistic expressions.
Photo portrait of Eugène Riconneaus by © Arno Lam