Chimeras and Gargoyles

The chimeras are these grotesque monsters having disparate parts of two or more animals.

Many civilisations were fascinated by these monstrous hybrid creatures. The first time I

got the idea to paint them was at the famous “Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral”. There were many gargoyles on the roof and most of them were chimeras. (Here a definition of a gargoyle by dictionary.com: a spout, terminating in a grotesque representation of a human or animal figure with open mouth, projecting from the gutter of a building for throwing rain water clear of a building.) It may seems strange to decorate a sacred edifice with monsters, but they were believed to protect the cathedral. I’m sure the sculptors of these times enjoyed making them. They probably enjoyed the religious sculptures too.

But the gargoyles have an air of bold freedom, ferocious spontaneity, and black humour which make them so attractive for a creative spirit.

I have enough of quiet harmony for now. I’m ready to deal with monsters, at least imaginary ones.

What do you think? Are you ready to leave the beauty and meet the beast with me? I’m waiting to hear from you.

To the chimera gallery

Have a look to my brand new paper maché monster masks.