Yolande Milan Batteau

Yolande Milan Batteau is an internationally recognized interdisciplinary fine artist who has honed her knowledge and physical mastery of hundreds of materials and methods over the last 30 years, drawing inspiration from natural phenomena and artistic anthropologies alike. Seeking and mapping the essential self, in tandem with perpetual self-observation and introspective study, is fundamental to her practice, as is constantly exploring, discovering, and revitalizing contemporary and ancient processes and mediums.

Batteau studied philosophy and painting at the Sorbonne in Paris, San Francisco Art Institute, and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston. Having traveled the world early in her career, Batteau has a strong affinity for a wide range of cultures and their arts. Many of the techniques, motifs and materials she has fallen in love with on her travels manifest in her artwork. Belgian simplicity, French decadence, African complexity, Japanese refinement, and American bravado are all equally beloved, alongside a host of more niche, less easily-definable aesthetics.

Batteau’s artwork also waxes decidedly romantic– the artist herself has made her own clothing and jewelry, has a passion and a knack for food, and a deep and rich appreciation for carefully handmade domestic goods. Alongside her penchant for essential makerism and material culture is a deep love for the natural world and all it offers: Batteau is fascinated by natural phenomena and spiritual interconnectedness, often retreating into nature for artistic revitalization and inspiration.

From her studio in New York City, Batteau has worked alongside some of the most renowned designers and artists of the era. In addition to her personal art practice, she also serves as the Founder and Principal Artist of art-for-architecture atelier Callidus Guild, which she founded in 1998.