From Paper to Art: The inspiring journey of a young binder
The binding, this unknown art trade, continues to attract enthusiasts in search of authenticity. Among them, Aël Paul, currently at the Cayenne de Paris, embodies the renewal of an ancestral profession that transforms simple pages into real works of art.
His journey, detailed in our latest edition of Le Compagnonnage, illustrates perfectly how the love of beautiful books can be transformed into a professional vocation. In addition, its history testifies to the relevance of the companion model in the transmission of rare know-how.
How can the love of books lead to an unsuspecting art profession?
Originally from Normandy, Aël Paul was originally destined for a classical academic career. After his baccalaureate, he moved to a BUT Métiers du livre in La Roche-sur-Yon, attracted by publishing and the professions of bookseller or librarian.
However, this training is quickly disappointing. "I didn't expect this sector to be so computerized," he says. "I appreciate the book as an object, not in its dematerialized and dehumanized format."
It is on the advice of a teacher that he discovers the craft related to the book. Thus, an internship at an artisan linker in Saint-Lô is sufficient to confirm his new orientation. "I already loved the fine books, so the binding was imposed as an ideal profession for me," he explains.
The binding, far from being a simple technical assembly, requires a thorough understanding of the materials and future uses of the work. Furthermore, the binder must anticipate any restorations by favouring reversible materials such as starch glue.
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Determined to excel in his art, Aël obtained his binding CAP Arts as a free candidate before embarking on the companion adventure. "It was the discovery of the journey that pleased the Companion," he says.
His journey led through France, from Normandy to Lyon, via Limoges, Vichy, Beaune and Illkirch. The Cayennes of several cities welcomed them, thus perpetuating the tradition of mutual assistance so dear to theCompanion Union.
Despite the richness of these experiences, Aël acknowledges their limitations: "The artisans do not have time to train me completely in their way of doing things, because the internships last only a few weeks." However, this diversity of approaches enabled him to build his own method.
Today based in Paris, he continues his training in restoration of ancient books while establishing links with the binding workshops of the capital. His ambition? Open your own workshop to serve collectors and enthusiasts.
"I need contact with customers and I want to dedicate my career to helping collectors or enthusiasts, as I am myself," he concluded with conviction.
How can we reconcile historical passion with economic viability in a rare trade such as binding? What are the future prospects for young artisans?
Discover the full article in the Journal Companion n° 841 which reveals all aspects of this inspiring journey.
