Sculptor and mobile designer Yves Cousineau, inspired by Alexander Calder’s kinetic objects, creates spiraling mobiles featuring hand-carved animals and spirit creatures influenced by Indigenous and Asian traditions. Made of fine local hardwoods harvested through careful observation of their environment, the works come to life in a spirit of symbiosis with the forests of Québec. Balance and movement in space and the search for formal beauty distinguish Yves’ mobiles. Working without a structured plan, he develops rudimentary concept sketches and lets the gradual process guide his creations. He finds inspiration in the evolution of the form, the qualities of wood, and the anomalies in his materials.

Years spent in Milan introduced Yves to the passion of Italian artists and designers for time-honored craftsmanship and the uncompromising pursuit of elegance and beauty. Frequent journeys to China, Japan, Thailand, Burma, Vietnam, and Indonesia allowed him to immerse himself in their cultural and artistic traditions. His works are held by collectors in North America, Europe, and Asia. Yves’ studio is in the Allied building in the Mile End.