Zim&Zou's Art Installation, Back to Basics II, pays homage to the charm of analog technologies in a riot of color.
French creative duo Zim&Zou, comprised of Lucie Thomas and Thibault Zimmermann, have unveiled their latest art installation, Back to Basics II. This vivid celebration of nostalgia and craftsmanship is a testament to the artists' meticulous and colourful paper sculptures, earning them international recognition in contemporary art and design circles.
The installation transports viewers to a time when chunky cassette players, rotary telephones, and video game controllers were staples of everyday life. Each piece in the collection is handmade using paper and leather, rendered in bold, saturated colours that pop against minimalist backgrounds. The centrepiece of the collection is a retro stereo system, a nod to the artists' appreciation for physical media and the rituals that came with it.
Among other objects, Back to Basics II features a Polaroid camera and a classic joystick controller, all crafted with extraordinary attention to detail. Every button, dial, and wire is carefully assembled to mirror their real-life counterparts, showcasing the artists' skill in both colour and form.
Zim&Zou's work stands out for its attention to detail, a trait that is evident in their intricate paper sculptures and large-scale installations. Their art often pays homage to tactile, analog objects of the past, connecting deeply with nostalgia while demonstrating masterful craftsmanship.
In addition to their solo work, Zim&Zou have collaborated with cultural institutions such as the Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris, designing interactive family play areas and workshops that creatively engage visitors in making paper art inspired by Claude Monet’s famous Water Lilies paintings.
Back to Basics II is a continuation of Zim&Zou's exploration of nostalgia and craftsmanship, offering a unique and immersive experience that is sure to resonate with audiences of all ages. The installation is a celebration of the past, a tribute to the objects that shaped our lives, and a testament to the enduring power of craftsmanship in the digital age.
The installation, Back to Basics II, immerses viewers in a nostalgic journey through fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden items of yesteryear, showcasing Zim&Zou's exceptional attention to detail. This life-like collection, comprised of paper and leather, also includes elements from the events and lifestyle sector, such as a vintage Polaroid camera and a classic joystick controller.
