Exploring the Art of Death: A Unique Collaboration Unveils Fermenta
By Editor • September 3, 2026 • 2 min read
In a groundbreaking exploration of mortality, artists Lisa Mouchet and Marine Prunier have teamed up to create Fermenta, a compelling book that delves into the rituals surrounding death. This work stands out in a saturated genre by offering a fresh perspective on decay, not as something to fear, but as an integral part of life.
Both Mouchet, an illustrator and writer, and Prunier, an artist and former funeral professional, share a fascination with the mystical and intimate aspects of death. Their collaborative project melds publishing, performance, and exhibitions, inviting readers to engage with the often-overlooked gestures and narratives associated with dying. "Death is forbidden, subsumed into a logic of management," Prunier notes, emphasizing the need for a more emotional and less bureaucratic approach to this universal experience.
At the core of Fermenta is a visually striking 100-page book, combining Risograph and laser printing with poignant texts and photographs from Prunier and evocative illustrations from Mouchet. The work not only addresses funeral customs but also encourages readers to reflect personally on mortality, even providing a space to draft a will or send a message of friendship.
The book's June launch was an unconventional affair, featuring a performance that challenged traditional funeral practices by transforming them into a culinary experience, including a symbolic banquet of bread shaped like a body. Mouchet highlights the pressing issue of capitalism in the funeral industry, where profit often overshadows dignity. However, she also points to the emergence of funeral cooperatives, which prioritize social utility over profit.
Through their artistic dialogue, Mouchet and Prunier present a multifaceted view of death, blending literature, philosophy, and activism to create a work that is both intimate and profound. Fermenta ultimately serves as a platform for reflecting on mortality, offering its audience a choice between comfort and discomfort as they navigate this essential aspect of human existence.
Source: www.itsnicethat.com
