Jacques Monestier’s automata are animated sculptures mixing art with techniques.
For his sculptures, he mainly uses hammered brass – gilt or oxidized – bronze, copper (electro-deposition process) and if necessary, composite materials.
Large and monumental sculptures all require a structure and animated welded steel skeletons covered with the sculpture in brass.
A wide variety of techniques can be used to make an automaton: mechanics, electricity, electronics, pneumatics (for large pieces), computers…
Whenever he needs to know a technique, he simply learns it or even invents it.
On several occasions, however, especially for his monumental sculptures, Jacques Monestier has asked other artists or specialists to collaborate with him: Engravers, Painters, Iron Craftsmen, Filmmakers, Electricians, Electronicians, I.T Professionals…