TIMEpainted
INliving
HUES
OUR artelier OF THE MONTH
Malachite: Deep green
May’s deep green represents transformation and protection, a rich shade that soothes and strengthens the spirit.
Malachite: Deep green
May’s deep green represents transformation and protection, a rich shade that soothes and strengthens the spirit.
AN ancestral
CRAFT
CRAFT
Straw Marquetry
Straw marquetry begins with seemingly simple gestures: splitting, flattening, cutting and assembling fine stalks. In the light, each strand reveals its own reflection. We love the way patterns emerge from such a humble material, giving time and the artisan’s hand their rightful place.
At April H., we believe in the beauty of patient craftsmanship, in materials that carry a story, and in the encounters that bring a work of art into being. Each creation is, above all, a human adventure shaped by the meeting of perspectives, sensibilities and skills.
EXCEPTIONAL artisans
Valérie
Valérie Colas des Francs practises straw marquetry, an art requiring patience and a keen sensitivity to light. After an initial career in marketing, she trained with Lison de Caunes before opening her workshop at the Château de Nemours. By splitting, flattening and assembling rye straw, she creates surfaces with distinctive reflections. We are delighted to feature her work on the dials of April H. creations, where every strand becomes part of the composition.
April H. Values
At April H., four values guide us: authenticity, creativity, humanity and sharing. They come to life through encounters with artisans, dialogue between crafts and the attention given to every gesture.
Authenticity
We care about origins, the integrity of materials and the sincerity of each gesture. Every creation bears traces of its own story, of the artisans who contributed to it, and of the time devoted to making it.
Creativity
We value encounters between worlds that may initially seem far apart. Watchmaking enters into dialogue with sculpture, colour, glass, marquetry and jewellery. These exchanges give rise to forms we could never have imagined alone.
Humanity
Behind every work are hands, perspectives, personal journeys, and sometimes years of learning. We want to give these human stories the place they deserve, because they matter to us as much as the object they help bring into being.
Sharing
Creation is a dialogue—with craftspeople, artists, collectors and everyone who takes the time to explore our approach. We love seeing our works become occasions for encounters, exchanges and the passing on of knowledge.
WORKS of art
Handcrafted in France
In May, straw marquetry takes centre stage. Each strand is opened, flattened and assembled to play with the light. We value this quiet work, where shades arise from the material itself and the sensitivity of the craftsperson shaping it.
WORKS of art
Handcrafted in France
In May, straw marquetry takes centre stage. Each strand is opened, flattened and assembled to play with the light. We value this quiet work, where shades arise from the material itself and the sensitivity of the craftsperson shaping it.
“Malachite green has a mysterious depth, like secrets buried deep within the earth.”
april h.
