What is the best thing that I love about my work?

Bringing a new piece of art into the world through the process of creating provides an unparalleled joy.

The part I love the most is how I am able to surprise myself in what I can accomplish.

What is my idea of happiness?

My idea of happiness is first of all the wonder of being alive.

Coupled with the luck of being creative, and being able to make my loved ones happy

What is my greatest fear?

Something bad happening to my children

What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?

To be hypersensitive, which is a heavy weight to carry

Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?
Chiharu Schiota , japanese artist
Giuseppe Penone , Italian artist
Anselm Kieffer , german artist who lives in France

What is my greatest extravagance?

My husband had a very successful career in the cinema industry so I had the privilege of attending the Festival de Cannes several times in my life. This gave me the opportunity to meet incredible talents, many of which enjoy my work.

On what occasion would I lie?

To prevent someone I care about from suffering

What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?

Sculptures are heavy!

When and where was I the happiest, in my work?

In 2017, I worked on my own to put together a big exhibition of my newest series, in a beautiful historical cloister within Paris. It took me 2 years of work, during which I was deeply anxious that the public wouldn’t react to my work. It turned out to be a huge success: I sold all my pieces then and there, and got orders lined up for the next 2 years.

If I could, what would I change about myself?

The shape of my head! As a sculpture it could be so easy.

What is my greatest achievement in work?

I was raised on a small farm in France where there was no room for art, no books, no music, nothing except for the beauty of nature. Yet, without any formal education in art, I became an artist.

Where would I most like to live?

Right where I currently am, at home, in Paris. I am very happy in this city. Paris is so beautiful and alive; and all my loved ones are here.

What is my most treasured possession?

The bust of my late father. I sat down with him for hours to make it. He was a very active worker on the farm so sitting unproductive in one place was not in his nature. This time I had with him was extremely special and this bust is the only token of remembrance of this time together.

What is my most marked characteristic?

Caring for my family and friends

What is my most inspirational location, in my city?

In my art studio in Paris: my imagination takes me to the most inspirational spots in the universe

What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?

There is a speakeasy restaurant I’ve been going to for years. It is hidden above a movie theater in Paris. I love it so much because it is calm and quiet, a rare luxury in Paris. So I cannot give you its name, it’s a secret…

What books influenced my life and how?

Le Grand Meaulnes de Alain Fournier, the first book I ever read: I discovered the powerful emotion of entering a mysterious world. Bakhita de Véronique Olmi, based on a true story, tells the story of a slave tortured woman ; I discovered how strong and resilient a woman can be when death comes to knock on your door.

You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?

I haven’t decided ! actually I didn’t even though about it yet .

Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?

Le petit prince

Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?

My husband, Francois Samuelson, who is my rock. My other hero in real life is Irène Frachon. This woman doctor revealed to the world the lethal risks of « Mediator », an appetite suppressant drug from the pharmaceutical lab « Servier » which took the life of thousands of patients undergoing this treatment. After a long and difficult judicial battle, she won the lawsuit, the drug was outlawed, and the patients’ family got financial compensation.

Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?

Barry Lyndon by Stanley Kubrick

What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ mean to me?

What is happening in your life is mostly up to you, you have the power to shape it. The way you tell your story influences how you see life. Make it a happy story if you want to live a happy life.

Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?

My gallery manager Bernadette d’Haudrecy; and my agent Anne Marie Franques

Which people or companies would I like to work with ?

Since I am an artist, some places would be a dream to show my work : Le collège des Bernardins à Paris Le couvent des Cordeliers à Paris Tokyo Station Art Gallery à Tokyo – and anywhere in Japan really:)

What project am I looking forward to work on?

I have been busy with my current exhibit I have not been able to start working on my new series. I am very much looking forward to creating new pieces.

Where can you see me or my work?
Galerie Bettina à Paris
D’Haudrecy Art Gallery in knokke, Belgium
on my website anniesamuelson.com
on instagram @anniesamuelson_paris

What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?

My personal motto for sure! I don’t see a future where I am not an artist.

How can you contact me?
mail address anniesamuelson@me.com