Chloé Manceau's world

Chloé Manceau is a young illustrator from Lyon, France, and the creator of our Hera, Mini Hera and Azulejos temporary tattoos sets.

- Hello Chloé, could you introduce yourself in a few words?

Hello, my name is Chloé Manceau, and I'm an illustrator (and UX designer) based in Lyon.

- How did you become an artist?

I've always been a do-it-yourselfer and drawn to manual activities, without focusing on illustration. In high school, I was lucky enough to be able to take part in an art workshop that enabled me to learn the basics of drawing, and to discover different techniques for painting, collage and so on. I really enjoyed drawing, so I decided to continue in this direction. I ended up at the Émile Cohl school in Lyon for 4 years. I discovered illustration, animation, sculpture... and at the end of my studies, I became a freelance illustrator.

- How would you define your artistic style?

I don't really know if I have an artistic style, but when people see my drawings, they tell me they're childlike, colorful, endearing and sweet. My illustrations often have little hidden details that you don't notice at first glance!

- What do you like best about being an artist?

I love being able to put down on paper what I think, what I see, the little details that please me, and share it all. I enjoy enriching someone else's idea or text with my drawings, and creating a world that combines reality and imagination. Every project is different, there are many techniques to mix and match, and it's possible to make drawings incorporating materials, textures and so on. There's never a dull moment!

- Why did you decide to embark on the Sioou adventure?

I heard about Sioou through friends and family, and was quickly seduced by the concept of temporary tattoos that can dress up an outfit and add a touch of originality. I have a tendency to change my mind a lot, and I think it would be difficult for me to choose an illustration for a permanent tattoo. I find ephemeral tattoos a nice compromise. And finally, it's nice to be able to wear my designs, and see them worn by others.

- What did you like about this collaboration?

I appreciate the exchange with the Sioou team, who listen and guide us in our creations. They respect the artist's work and know how to bring out the best in it. I have to say that I've been impressed by the quality of the rendering - it's superb!

- What were your inspirations for your tattoos sets?

For the Hera set, I was inspired by Greek art, particularly the motifs on vases, as well as Mediterranean art for its blue tones and the geometric shapes sometimes found on tiles. Peacock feathers also inspired certain shapes.

For the Azulejos set, I was inspired by Byzantine art, the walls of Granada's Alhambra, mandalas and the motifs found on the earthenware tiles found in Spain and Portugal (Azulejos).

- Can you sum them up in a few words?

The Hera set is perfect for summer, with its gold, silver and blue tones. Simple and elegant, it features pendants, bracelets for wrists, arms and ankles, and small tattoo motifs on the hands. The golden palm adds a festive touch and is perfect for wearing on the face.

The Azulejos set is designed as a mosaic, where “strips” can be cut to form cuffs, or the tattoos can be used individually. Designs for the back, for wrists, mandalas to place on the bust, hands, etc., this temporary tattoos set invites your creativity to create new tattoos.

- Do you have any favorite motifs or themes that you like to deal with in your art?

For a while now, I've really enjoyed drawing vegetation, little plants and flowers. It's a real source of inspiration for finding a range of colors and working on patterns. The heart of a flower, or the elegant lines of a tree, can be a real eye-opener.

I also enjoy working with geometric shapes to create a pattern, or playing with repetition to produce a tapestry.

Thank you so much, Chloé! You can find temporary tattoos by Chloé Manceau here, here and here.

Discover her entire universe on her website!