My first vocation had been dance, it was my art for twentyfive years.

At eighteen, I discovered Yoga. The mutual practice of the two disciplines allowed me, I suppose, to better explore the physical an mental dimensions of being, both in a stationary position and in movement.

While staying in the U.S.A. I learned about cords, strings and knotting. Dance does appeal to the spirit and the body.

Those "things", those materials, submissive or restive, responded to my desire for externalisation, for detachment from myself. I have no other tools but my hands and my fingers, in contact with the braided strings, preferably vegetal. The knot that shapes the cord varies hardly at all: a half-key and more rarely a flat knot. The technique is elementary.

I have no set method of constructing my works: simply a rather vague image at the beginning of each undertaking.

The forme is born of the contact between the cord and my fingers, of spontaneity, improvisation, or error overcome with patience and vigilance.

Curiously - but so logically upon reflection - the knot finds its place in all the symbolisms, occidental or oriental, religious or mythical, as an emblem of linkage and of deliverance. Here the knot supports the form and constructs it, reveals it, and imprisons it. 

Sylvie Clavel

2005

The textile sculptures are filmed and presented to the Academy of Fine Arts of Bologna by a group of students from the DAMS school in Bologna.

2004

Showcasing of Sylvie's artworks on RAI national news, presentation of her masterpieces in the Sambuca di Sicilia archeological Antiquarium.

2002

Inauguration of Sylvie Clavel's permanent exhibition in the former Monastery of St. Catherine in Sambuca di Sicilia, in the region of Agrigento.

1995

Exhibition in Scalea Villa, Palermo.

1985

Exhibition in Fornay Library, Paris.

1985

Studies at the Paris Yoga Federation.

1984-85

Takes part to the Esther Chacòn Avilà knotting workshop in Paris.

1974-78

Teaches classical dance for the Janet Sassoun academy, San Francisco. Studies at the Alvin Aley Academy in New York.

1969-74

Studies classical dance with Boris Kniazeff in Paris and then becomes Françoise Verdier's assistant. Sylvie teaches classical dance and dances in the company of Sheila Raj's "Circle".

1968-72

Practices contemporary dance at the American Center of Paris: Martha Graham technique, Merce Cunningham, with Francoise Verdier, Sheila Raj, Jane Honor, Carolyn Carlson.

1965-70

Daily practices dance with Raymond Franchetti, dance professor at Opéra de Paris.