Residing in the High-Jura, David Mayet draws his inspiration from nature and mountains surrounding him.
He initially began his artistic activity in hunting photography which familiarized him with the fauna of his area before launching out in 2001 in oil-based painting in a self-educated manner. David specializes in animalist miniatures on a surprising and original support: the feather. Coming from a family of hunters, David Mayet collects from his entourage the feathers of wood pigeons, jays, pheasants, partridge and other game, as well as feathers of birds in birdcages or farmyards such as cocks, ducks, parakeets…His subjects of predilection are the wild animals of our regions: wild boars, deers, woodcocks, stags mules and of Virginia, elk, wapitis, wolves, lynx, etc… David also produces a series on exotic animals: lions, antelopes…

Technique

The secondary feathers, mainly remiges (wing feathers) and the rectrices (tail feathers), are carefully taken, chosen, sorted then assembled in 2,3, or more by one point of adhesive. The feathers do not undergo any treatment besides the addition of some naphthalene grains to ensure better conservation. Several difficulties are encountered. The feathers being an unstable support, the artist must realize his masterpiece with a very stable hand, painting directly without possibility of “repentance”. Thus, the silhouette of the animal constitutes the most delicate phase. The fine oil-based paint is then affixed directly onto the feathers using very fine brushes by taking care to follow the direction of the barbules (Barbules are a part of the tree formed by the feathers). A subject requires approximately 3 or 4 work hours. After a drying time of approximately 2 weeks, the assembly is carried out according to the traditional methods of framing. These works of art are preserved without problem, it is however advisable to avoid a too strong exposure to the sun or moisture. All pieces come framed and under glass. This talented Artist will produce any wild animal if you would like to commission a different piece.