Audrey Gentner is a gilder, ornamentalist and framer. She works first of all on objects covered with gold or silver leaf by giving a second life to sentimental works or collections. The gilder also sublimates existing works such as engravings or prints by framing them so as to highlight the object.
Audrey Gentner also creates decorative objects with gold leaf in order to bring a more creative touch to her profession. This can be natural elements that she gilds in order to put them under a glass bell (type "cabinet of curiosity") or the framing of personalized objects such as letters (always gilded with gold, see photos) .
She learned her job in several gilding workshops which allowed her to acquire the necessary know-how to then pass the diploma. Audrey Gentner loved going from workshop to workshop, because even if the know-how remains the same, there are always one or two subtleties to be gleaned here and there which makes each workshop exceptional! To work with gold leaf, Audrey Gentner uses two classic techniques: tempera and mixing, but also gelatin gilding which is also called "verre églomisé".
The customizable creations in golden letter are the ones she particularly appreciates. Indeed, we can include words, a date, first names ... All this in a noble material that does not deteriorate over time.
Many thanks to Audrey Gentner who kindly accepted to answer our questions!
Photo credits: Audrey Gentner
