From Alain Kern to JJ Leto

Born in Mulhouse in 1977, Alain Kern followed a traditional educational path, obtaining his BAC and
a BTS in Biochemistry. His professional career began in a laboratory, where he worked as
a project manager until the age of 27.

In 2001, whilst still in full-time employment, he began to develop an entrepreneurial idea by
setting up a business specialising in the cultivation of carnivorous plants. Three years later, he left his
job to devote himself fully to this venture.

At the same time, he opened a studio and gallery in Neuf-Brisach (68), where he took his first steps
into the art world by exhibiting his black-and-white analogue photographs, whilst
exploring the art of painting, graffiti and Land Art under the pseudonym JJ Leto, this was
in 2012.

Eventually, the world of plants became an integral part of his artistic practice, and various
creations and collaborations led to his participation in a group exhibition at
the prestigious Palais de Tokyo in Paris in 2014.

He enriched his artistic journey by publishing a photography book in 2015, followed by a
collection of poetry in 2017. His thirst for exploration led him towards new forms
of expression, particularly through materials; he learnt to use a potter’s wheel in 2019,
then discovered the world of ceramics in 2021.

Finally, in 2022, he decided to sell his horticultural business in order to devote
himself fully to his work as a ceramist and woodturner, thus continuing his artistic journey
with determination and passion.

JJ Leto’s website: https://atelier-terre-et-bois.com

Instagram profile: Atelier terre & bois