Chantal Westby

Chantal Westby Visual artist & multi medium abstract painter
Artist Environmental Activist. Carl Sagan. Her artistic approach is in perfect harmony with the story of her life.

BIO

"The nature of life on Earth and the search for life elsewhere are two sides of the same question - the search for who we are." Chantal Westby is a French-American visual artist born in northern France. From her childhood lived in a very modest and strict environment, she preserved the treasures and emotions of her imaginary escapades nourished by the stories of her late soldier father who s

erved in Indochina and was affected like many by the war, but also by the refinement of the Asian way of life. Inspired by these dreamlike childhood journeys, she spent her life building, shaping and embellishing her daily environment by using all the resources she could find around her. Gifted with a strong sensitivity and an innate creativity, she has always known how to brighten her world and that of others. Her spirit, her vivacity, her passion for life, her empathy for others have shaped a unique, complex and complete personality. It all starts with an observation, an idea, a questioning. There begins the journey where spirituality, light, mystery and the power of convictions are fused. She uses Art as a language, for which she builds, she embellishes, she suggests, she questions, she expresses. The richness of every aspect of the universe is her inspiration. She creates a world made of imagination, intuition and energy while evoking peace and lightness with a touch of reality. Chantal Westby's life could be divided into two distinct parts, the French and the American one, both separated by an ocean but connected by Art. Graduated from the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture in Paris, her fashion design career allowed her to express her first artistic emotions through textiles. Refusing codes and limits, she quickly began to recycle and integrate other materials into her creations. A personal event brutally put an end to her career and her French life. After moving to the United States at the end of the 80's, the expression of her creativity would take shape in the complete interior design of her home, for which she would make it a point of honor to use and reinvent old furniture and objects found at flea markets to give them a second life inspired by the Empire style. This sumptuous decor was published in various interior design magazines. With this first American work completed and in need of a new artistic expression, she decided to expand her technique and studied art and painting at the PAFA (Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts). Since then, she has continued to expand her technique through increasingly larger works, integrating new mediums to eventually create true sculptures today. Of all those times and productions, only one of them, inherited from her father's Asian narrations, has remained with her: ink. Pure, diluted, pigmented or dried, it is used in almost all of her creations. Her history and that of her entourage have led to affinities with tangible creative themes such as global warming, space conquest and the resulting pollution, as well as mystical themes such as the journey of souls or the origin of life, which invite us to question much wider issues. Since 2017 and her encounter with the French multimedia artist and photographer Lénaïc G. Mercier, they combine their two worlds to create immersive and interactive installations on these themes. Driven like any human being by her doubts and contradictions, she now devotes a large part of her work to educating and awakening consciousness. "I feel that the impact of my daily actions, which I try to be as small as possible, versus the reality of the current planet’s situation is a real struggle for me. The immaculate figurative portrayal of consumerist abundance in my artwork contrasts with reality. Our planet is dying under the burden of humanity's actions and waste. My work as an artist takes on its full meaning, if I can humbly convince and sensibilize even one person to understand that our earth is being abused and that we must do all in our power to preserve it." Active in the community as well, she supports various foundations and NGOs such as From Here to Haiti and Life Project 4 Youth. She lives and works in Philadelphia. VISION / STATEMENT
For years now, I have dedicated my art to awaken, evoke, stimulate, surprise and sometimes educate. My work is addressed to the largest possible number of people and is accessible to art lovers as well as to the non-initiated. My artworks are imagined and created to be vectors of emotions; they challenge and I try through them, humbly, to awaken consciences to the current and future upheavals of our planet. Mostly dominated with white, and sometimes colored, my creations are now coming to life in 3 dimensions. They evoke nature, beauty and the energy of the universe but also humanity's excesses and its harmful consequences. The Light is always present through the dilution of inks and natural pigments that create mysterious auroras. I also like working with mixed media to reach new dimensions and give life to the fantasy. My inspirations are so wide that I keep a kind of moodboard made up of different materials, photographs, multiple artworks, music and texts that inspire me and challenge me. I recycle, I collect and I store objects, until these elements find their natural place in a work of art. My freedom of creation is vital, my process is extremely spontaneous and intuitive. A piece of work, painted or sculpted, usually appears very clearly to me as a vision while I am already in the midst of creating. I have one golden rule in mind: never forbid myself anything, whatever the dream might be. The technical process to realize this project becomes clear in my head during the following night. Obviously, I sometimes face obstacles, the feasibility is not always crystal clear, but my thirst to learn and work allows me to find the solutions. Challenge is a friend that supports and motivates me.

Dear friends, admirers, family, and loyal supporters, Through the 6 films "America - America," you followed my journey. ...
03/23/2025

Dear friends, admirers, family, and loyal supporters, Through the 6 films "America - America," you followed my journey. Today, I have the immense joy of presenting a project that is very close to my heart: a photo album tracing 26 years of happiness spent in my home and garden in Bryn-Mawr, Pennsylvania. This place, an inexhaustible source of inspiration, was not only my refuge but also the stage for my transformation into an activist artist for the planet. A testament to a life devoted to creation and raising awareness, this album is, without a doubt, my most colossal and intimate artwork.

I invite you to watch this video that unveils this treasure of images and memories.

https://youtu.be/zQe0rxm-EIA

https://www.shutterfly.com/share-product/...

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 I am absolutely thrilled to share that my painting, After The Storm (40"x60"x2"), has been sold and w...
03/22/2025

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 I am absolutely thrilled to share that my painting, After The Storm (40"x60"x2"), has been sold and will be added to the esteemed collection of the Williamsburg Art Museum. This is a momentous milestone in my journey as an artist, and I couldn't be happier. Thank you to everyone who has supported my work and believed in my vision. Together, we continue to celebrate art that inspires and connects.

Big thank you to the curator, Yuko Nii.

In this collection of 20 paintings, I have employed gold leaf as a central element, imbuing each piece with layers of sy...
03/20/2025

In this collection of 20 paintings, I have employed gold leaf as a central element, imbuing each piece with layers of symbolism. Gold, with its associations of purity, enlightenment, and timelessness, captures and reflects light, symbolizing hope, illumination, and the enduring beauty of nature. Its presence emphasizes a journey inward, exploring my emotions, thoughts, and place in the vast universe.

The recurrent theme of the circle weaves through the collection, amplifying its symbolic resonance:

Unity and Wholeness: The circle, as an infinite shape without beginning or end, represents completeness, eternity, and interconnectedness. It becomes a metaphor for the cycle of life, the universe, and the unbreakable bonds among all living things.

Cycles and Rhythms: Echoing the Earth's natural cycles—the seasons, lunar phases, and the patterns of life—these circles remind us of the planet’s harmony and our duty to preserve it. They align with my environmental advocacy, urging viewers to cherish the Earth's cyclical balance.

Sacred Geometry: As a cornerstone of sacred geometry, the circle symbolizes harmony, balance, and divine order. This aligns with my exploration of cosmic themes, uniting the self with the vastness of the universe.

Self and Reflection: The circle also serves as a mirror of the self, inviting introspection. In this context, it reflects my personal journey and evolving relationship with the universe.

The collection as a whole embodies a contemplation of the self in the cosmos, emphasizing the interconnectedness between humanity and the universe. The depiction of myself lost in the immensity of the cosmic constellation evokes wonder and humility, prompting a deeper reflection on our place within the vastness. My observation of Earth from above serves as a metaphor for my environmental advocacy, underscoring the urgency of protecting and cherishing our fragile planet.

🌳 "Forest"—A"Sacred Sanctuary 🌳As an artist and activist, Lenaic and I, our mission is to illuminate the urgent fight ag...
03/14/2025

🌳 "Forest"—A"Sacred Sanctuary 🌳

As an artist and activist, Lenaic and I, our mission is to illuminate the urgent fight against global warming and to safeguard the future of our children. "Forest" is not merely a painting; it is a call to action, a reminder of the profound interconnectedness of all life.

In every stroke of ink, in the shimmer of minerals and gold, lies a story of resilience and hope. This forest, with its tall, slender trees and radiant golden sun, speaks of the balance we must strive to protect. It is a sanctuary of life, a testament to the air we breathe, the water we cherish, and the climate we must heal.

Let us remember that trees are more than just a part of our landscape; they are the very essence of our planet's vitality. They stand as guardians of our ecosystems, providing shelter, sustenance, and balance. They are the lifelines of our biodiversity, the silent sentinels of our collective future.

Join us in this journey of awareness and action. Together, we can nurture the roots of change and cultivate a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.

With gratitude and hope, Lenaic G. Mercier and Chantal Westby

By placing my self-portrait at the center, I love to symbolize the importance of self-awareness and introspection. It in...
03/08/2025

By placing my self-portrait at the center, I love to symbolize the importance of self-awareness and introspection.

It indicates a journey inward, where I explore my emotions, thoughts, and place in the universe.

The depiction of myself lost in the immensity of the cosmic constellation highlights the interconnectedness between the self and the universe.

It suggests a contemplation of our place within the vast cosmos, evoking a sense of wonder and humility.

My observation of Earth from above serves as a metaphor for my environmental advocacy. It reflects my deep concern for our planet, emphasizing the need to cherish and protect our home.

I have mastered the use of gold leaf throughout much work, adding layers of symbolism. Gold is often associated with purity, enlightenment, and timelessness. It captures and reflects light, symbolizing hope, illumination, and the enduring beauty of nature.

Trillions of our tax dollars were wasted. WHY CAN'T WE WALK ON MARS?Humans cannot walk on Mars without spaceships or sui...
03/07/2025

Trillions of our tax dollars were wasted.

WHY CAN'T WE WALK ON MARS?
Humans cannot walk on Mars without spaceships or suits because the Martian environment is hostile to human life. The Martian atmosphere is thin and contains very little oxygen, which means that humans cannot breathe the air.

There are many challenges to traveling to Mars, including distance, radiation, and the planet's atmosphere.

Distance
The distance between Earth and Mars is 200 times greater than the distance between Earth and the Moon.
The distance between Earth and Mars varies, with the minimum distance occurring every 26 months.

Radiation
Mars' thin atmosphere and lack of a global magnetic field expose the surface to high-energy radiation from the sun and cosmic rays. This radiation can cause serious health risks.

Atmosphere
Mars' atmosphere is mostly carbon dioxide, but it's too thin and cold to support liquid water.
The planet's atmosphere also contains methane gas and compounds that are toxic to life.

Other challenges
The technology needed to get to Mars and support life there hasn't been developed yet.
The journey to Mars would be isolating, with astronauts unable to communicate with Earth regularly.
The psychological stress of isolation and confinement could lead to social breakdown.

Humans evolved to move fluids against gravity on Earth, so our bodies would need to adapt to Mars' lower gravity.
NASA is researching how the human body and mind respond to space travel to help overcome these challenges.

Breaking News: Falling debris from a failed test of a SpaceX Starship, a prototype of the spacecraft that Elon Musk says will one day take people to Mars, disrupted flights at several Florida airports. Read more: https://nyti.ms/3DpBNzV

SPEAK ABOUT YOUR IDEAS?Given the current political climate instability, a mega project worth trillions of dollars will b...
03/07/2025

SPEAK ABOUT YOUR IDEAS?

Given the current political climate instability, a mega project worth trillions of dollars will be offered to Elon Musk and NASA to pursue the dream of going to Mars.

NO PLANET B:
ARGUMENT: Earth is unique and irreplaceable.
Support: Emphasize that Earth is the only known planet capable of supporting human life, with a rich and diverse ecosystem. Highlight the interconnectedness of all life forms and the importance of preserving this delicate balance.
Urgency of Climate Action:
ARGUMENT: Immediate action is required to combat climate change and secure a livable future for our children.

Support: Provide data on the current state of the climate crisis, including rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and loss of biodiversity. Stress the long-term consequences of inaction and the moral responsibility to protect future generations.
Impracticality of Mars Colonization:

ARGUMENT: The challenges of traveling to and living on Mars make it an impractical solution for humanity's future.
Support: Detail the numerous obstacles, such as the vast distance, exposure to high radiation, and the uninhabitable atmosphere. Mention the current technological limitations and the health risks involved. Reference NASA's ongoing research and findings to bolster this point.
Focus on Earth:

ARGUMENT: We should prioritize restoring and preserving our home planet over pursuing dreams of Mars colonization.
Support: Highlight the urgency of addressing environmental issues on Earth and the tangible benefits of investing in sustainable practices, renewable energy, and conservation efforts. Point out the immediate positive impact these actions can have on our planet's health.

CONCLUSION: By using my art as a universal language, I aim to awaken consciousness about planetary upheavals and stimulate emotions that drive change. My work combines visual elements and research to create a powerful statement that challenges perceptions and inspires action. Together, we can make a difference by focusing on the urgent need to restore and protect our home, Earth.

I am delighted to support the incredible art organization in Philadelphia by donating one of my most beautiful canvases ...
03/06/2025

I am delighted to support the incredible art organization in Philadelphia by donating one of my most beautiful canvases
to their Annual Benefit.

Posted by : The March For Art is just around the corner! KNOW BEFORE YOU GO features InLiquid artist Chantal Westby () and her work, “Serene,” up for auction.

Join us at PEEK, the exclusive preview event for InLiquid’s Annual Auction! Be among the first to view the artwork, meet the artists, and place your bids before the auction goes live! The event will take place on Sunday, March 9, from 2-6 pm. Tickets are available now.

I hope this aligns with your vision and effectively highlights the event. If you need any more adjustments, just let me know!

inliquid.org/marchforart


Free to attend—register now to secure your spot!

Arnie just said what storytellers have understood for centuries.You can’t talk about climate only using data.You’ve got ...
02/27/2025

Arnie just said what storytellers have understood for centuries.

You can’t talk about climate only using data.

You’ve got to tell the story that will make people tear up.

And it starts with your kids.

Because we do not inherit the planet from our parents,

We borrow it from our children.

We borrow the car we drive, the steak we munch and the flight we take.

We borrow the job we do and the vote we cast.

We borrow the climate convo we need to have, fast.

So, when you have that climate conversation.

Think and talk about your kids.

Because they’re the biggest reason people act on climate change.

An image from the upcoming art installation will be made public.
02/22/2025

An image from the upcoming art installation will be made public.

02/10/2025
For those who wish to acquire my biography, simply go to any bookstore and place an order.Many of you have asked, "Where...
02/10/2025

For those who wish to acquire my biography, simply go to any bookstore and place an order.

Many of you have asked, "Where can I get your book?"... Here are the necessary links: www.chantalwestby.com

Online on the site: Librairie et éditions DOUIN https://editions-douin.com/.../327-chantal-westby-avec...

My biography is available on Amazon, Fnac, Decitre, etc. here: www.editions-douin.com

A big thank you to Frédéric Douin, Sandra Bensoussan Journalist-Biographer, and Lenaic Gasquet Mercier

******se

Lenaic and I have created the "Forest," an immersive installation to address such a critical issue.https://www.chantalwe...
02/02/2025

Lenaic and I have created the "Forest," an immersive installation to address such a critical issue.
https://www.chantalwestby.com/forest

You can find more details about our installation, "Forest," on our website.

I hope museums and institutions recognize the urgency of the situation and provide a platform for our work to raise awareness and inspire action.

Curated by Chantal Westby and Lénaïc Mercier’s art installation, “The Forest,” is a powerful and immersive multimedia en...
01/22/2025

Curated by Chantal Westby and Lénaïc Mercier’s art installation, “The Forest,” is a powerful and immersive multimedia environment that addresses the urgent theme of climate change.

1. The Forest:
The installation invites viewers to engage with the delicate balance between humanity and nature.
It serves as a visual language, expressing the damage we are causing to our planet.
2. Human Forms:
Within “The Forest,” there are human forms, each carrying symbolic weight.
One figure is covered in moss and seed pods, representing a harmonious coexistence with nature.
Another figure appears gray and cracked, breathing through a face mask connected to a terrarium. This speculative representation suggests a bleak future if we continue on our destructive path.
3. Japanese Scroll Landscapes:
Surrounding these busts are beautiful landscapes reminiscent of Japanese scrolls.
These landscapes feature golden moons and towering vegetation, rendered in fluid, inky brushstrokes.
The Japanese masters’ approach of placing nature at the center, excluding people from the composition, resonates here.
4. Individual Art Pieces:
Let's explore the individual pieces within “The Forest”:
ADAM & EVE (Two Sculptures):
Material: Plaster and cement Height: 6 feet. These sculptures evoke themes of creation, vulnerability, and our connection to the natural world.
ETERNITY (Painting):
Size: 30" x 40" Medium: Ink and Gold on Canvas
The painting explores the concept of eternity, perhaps referencing the timeless cycles of nature.
Two Large Paintings:
Size: 103" x 56" Medium: All ink, minerals, gold leaf, and varnish
These large-scale artworks continue the dialogue about our relationship with the environment.
Two Small Paintings: Medium: All ink, minerals, gold leaf, and varnish
These smaller pieces complement the larger ones, creating a cohesive narrative.
Humanity Challenge Sculpture:
Material: Moss on the face, metal pedestal This sculpture embodies the struggle between humanity and nature.
On the floor, the spiral fog effect adds an ethereal quality to the space, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
Audience Interaction:
Visitors can walk around the installation, observing each element from different angles.
Sculpture (33 inches): Height: 33 inches Materials: Recycled glass, wood, leaves, plants, stone, cement, and steam
The use of recycled materials emphasizes sustainability and resilience.
A spotlight highlights this wall art, emphasizing its significance within the installation.
Mist or Fog Effect:

5. Technical Aspects:
Spotlights and projectors enhance the visual impact of the installation.
The soundtrack adds an auditory layer, immersing viewers further into the experience.
6. Mulch:
Two bags of mulch contribute to the tactile and sensory elements of the installation.
7. Setting and atmosphere:
8. The installation is situated in a dimly lit room, creating an intimate and contemplative ambiance.
9. Focused lighting illuminates’ specific areas, drawing attention to different elements within the space.

In summary, “The Forest” invites us to reflect on our role in the intricate web of existence. It speaks of creation, vulnerability, eternity, and the urgent need to harmonize with our natural surroundings. Through these art forms, we confront our choices and their consequences, urging us to tread more lightly upon the Earth.

Lenaic and I have created the "Forest," WE OUR ONE WORLD, ONE PLANET, immersive installation to address such a critical ...
01/14/2025

Lenaic and I have created the "Forest," WE OUR ONE WORLD, ONE PLANET, immersive installation to address such a critical issue.
https://www.chantalwestby.com/forest
Art can be a powerful medium to engage people and prompt them to think deeply about global challenges like climate change. You can find more details about our installation, "Forest," on our website. I hope museums and institutions recognize the urgency of the situation and provide a platform for our work to raise awareness and inspire action.

This is The Wake Up Call.The Unfolding Tragedy in California: A Call for ActionI'm deeply moved by the tragic events unf...
01/11/2025

This is The Wake Up Call.
The Unfolding Tragedy in California: A Call for Action
I'm deeply moved by the tragic events unfolding in California. I once experienced a similar loss, and it shaped my journey as a serious activist. Today, as I witness the sadness and devastation, I find it difficult to remain my usual self. The news is overwhelming.
Do we need more wake-up calls? 🙏🏽
We stand in solidarity with all those affected by climate chaos. Our hearts, support, and prayers are with those impacted and their loved ones.
Addressing Blame and Speculation
It's disheartening to see people assigning blame before thorough investigations are conducted. We need support and solidarity, not harmful speculation. Society seems numb and unaffected, struggling to lead amidst the absurdity of daily news.
The Manifestation of Climate Change
Climate change is manifesting through a series of disasters, viewed through phones until it directly impacts us. This is Pacific Palisades, CA, on January 9th. Three terrifying days in Los Angeles: fires raging, first responders overwhelmed, families losing homes—many without insurance. The damage will take decades to repair. It's no longer someone else’s story; it’s here and now.
Recognizing the Immediate Threats
Climate change and biodiversity loss are not long-term threats; they are present now. They materialize as slow-onset events or extreme weather disasters, reaching dangerous tipping points. These tipping points mark where there is no turning back, transforming slow-onset events into accelerated cascades.
Economic and Human Impact
The economic and human impact is devastating. The homeless crisis will worsen, with thousands uninsured and places of employment destroyed. The loss of electricity and water could last weeks, possibly months. Rebuilding will take years, and many may never return to the area.
Explaining the Fires
Statements like “The wildfire was human-caused. It wasn’t climate change” don't tell the full story. More than 80% of wildfires are caused by human activity, but climate change creates the conditions for these extreme events. Researchers have calculated that the human-caused climate emergency has contributed to a 172% increase in California’s burned areas since the 1970s, with further spread expected.
The Need for Collective Action
Unfortunately, many refuse to admit their wrongdoings, even in the face of tragedy. Perhaps when it happens in their backyard, they will wake up. The world is burning, and even from afar, the fires are devastating. In Los Angeles, more than 10,000 structures have burned. Heroic firefighters and pilots work in dangerous conditions to serve others.
A Global Perspective
Less reported is the massive fire that wiped out two-thirds of Ghana’s Katamanto second-hand clothing market, where 30,000 people work. These fires are amplified by the same root cause—climate change, driven by unprecedented consumption of fossil fuels.
Action Over Inaction
These fires won’t be the "climate awakening" for the wealthiest or climate skeptics. We must double our efforts to inform, mobilize, and push for action. Inaction only fuels the flames. We must engage in real public policies of adaptation because scientists have warned for decades that we must prepare for the worst.
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Address

Westby & Mercier Studio 304/915 Spring Garden Street, Box 20/
Philadelphia, PA
19123

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

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Fiat#Lux - The Immersive Exhibition

PAINTINGS - PHOTOGRAPHS - FILMS - SOUNDS - MUSIC - VIDEO MAPPING - SCENTS

- LIGHTS A UNIQUE and IMMERSIVE experience for people.

FIAT#LUX — a Latin phrase meaning “Let there be light” — is a collaborative project by multimedia artist and photographer Lénaïc Mercier, and internationally acclaimed painter Chantal Westby, that doesn’t confine itself to photographs and paintings alone, but realizes through this site-specific installation an entirely immersive experience, at once utopian and intimate.

Developed by the two French artists in New York City, this installation is a study in process, where the character-driven photography of Mercier reflects on the creative practice of Westby, intimately detailing the stages of development