YVES DANA Egyptian, b. 1959

Yves Dana, born on June 25, 1959, in Alexandria, Egypt, moved to Switzerland with his family in 1961, where he would spend most of his life and artistic career. From a young age, he developed a passion for sculpture, opening his first studio in Lausanne in 1979. This unique space, described by Dana as “an old chemistry laboratory covered in iron dust shimmering like a constellation,” became the starting point for his exploration of metal sculptures. He further honed his craft at the School of Fine Arts in Geneva, where he created his first pieces under the guidance of Professor Musy, despite initial doubts about his physical suitability for the medium.

Over the next four decades, Dana produced more than 200 iron sculptures, reflecting his mastery of the material. Alongside his artistic endeavors, he studied sociology at the University of Lausanne, graduating in 1981 while teaching mathematics to support himself. His first significant exhibition in 1985 at Galerie Alice Pauli marked the beginning of his recognition in the art world, leading to the offer of a studio at l’Orangerie du parc de Mon-Repos in Lausanne two years later. This exceptional space served as his creative environment for over thirty-five years.

In 1996, a six-month return to Egypt deeply influenced Dana's work, prompting him to explore simpler, more hieratic forms, which led to the creation of his Stèles series. He also began working with plaster and, by the late 1990s, turned his attention to stone sculpture, importing various types of stone for his monumental works. His first exhibition in Paris in 1999, along with a second monograph, marked a significant shift in his artistic focus as he fully transitioned from iron to stone.

Dana's reputation continued to grow, participating in prestigious international exhibitions, including the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao in 2006. He received multiple accolades, including the Vaudoise Foundation for Culture award in 2015, and published a new monograph in 2023, highlighting his impact on contemporary sculpture. In 2024, he expanded his studio in Pietrasanta, Italy, where he continues to innovate by combining materials like iron and stone. Today, Yves Dana’s works are celebrated in esteemed collections worldwide, affirming his significant place among contemporary sculptors.