Eric Leblanc – Plasterer Staffer Stuccoman

Pays de la Loire – 1965

Éric Leblanc is a plasterer, staffer and stuccoman. When he was 14, he has started to learn his know-how as an apprentice in Nantes. In 1990, at the age of 17, he has started a training as a “Compagnon Plâtrier Stucateur Staffeur du Devoir”. Thanks to this apprenticeship, he has been able to travel around Europe (Germany, Italy) and to discover skills such as modeling and stamping.

In 1997, he moved to Anjou and founded Les Métiers du Plâtre. Since the creation of this workshop, he has sought to perpetuate the tradition of plasterers, staffers and stuccomen artists, while bringing a contemporary touch to his works and research. Éric Leblanc has held numerous exhibitions in partnership with the Chambre de Métiers et de l’Artisanat and the Pays de Loire métiers d’art mission. He has won several regional and national awards, notably in the Heritage and Historic Monuments categories.

2019 – Prix Coup Cœur du jury des Trophées Placo du Club des entreprises Placo/Saint Gobin.

2009 – Winner of the Liliane Bettencourt prize for the intelligence of the hand.

2007 – EPV (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant) state label.

Research and innovation

Éric Leblanc has a double activity within his workshop. Firstly, he restores historic monuments, thus ensuring the durability of architectural heritage, but also and above all of his know-how and techniques. Secondly, he dedicates his work to creation and experimentation, helping his know-how to evolve.

Transmission

Éric Leblanc is keen to pass on his craft. In his workshop, he has trained Florent, now co-manager of the company, and regularly takes on apprentices. He gives talks and lectures in applied arts schools such as Olivier de Serres, as well as in universities in Rennes and Nantes. He is also a member of the Maine-et-Loire Plasterers’ Association and opens his workshop during the Journées Européennes des Métiers d’Art.

Fondation Rémy Cointreau has helped Éric Leblanc in 2021 to acquire a plaster engraving machine. This has enabled him to create more contemporary pieces, encouraging young people to take an interest in his craft.