Meet Jérôme Phalippou: Comic Artist in Abondance

French comic artist and illustrator Jérôme Phalippou is bringing a unique artistic perspective to the historic Abondance Abbey. The artist, a resident of the Vallée d’Abondance, has spent several months meticulously documenting the architecture and hidden details of the building for an exhibition titled Une Abbaye à croquer.

The exhibition is scheduled to run from June 27 to September 27, 2026. Visitors can access the displays daily between 9:30 am and 12:00 pm, and again from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Entry to the exhibition is free of charge, though standard site admission for the Abbey still applies.

The Artistic Process at Abondance Abbey

For this project, Phalippou utilized a sketchbook to explore the interior of the historic monument, focusing on areas often overlooked by visitors. His work captures the invisible elements of the structure, ranging from the space between pillars and the curves of archways to the intricate roof trusses.

To bring these details to life, the artist employed a variety of media, including ink, pencil, and watercolor. The resulting series of drawings emphasizes precision and patience, aiming to show that history is present in the shifting shadows and stone of the building rather than just in written records.

The exhibition is designed as an invitation for visitors to slow down and rediscover the monument. In addition to viewing Phalippou’s work, the event encourages guests to bring their own paper and pencils to sketch architectural details they find compelling.

Career and Background of Jérôme Phalippou

Born on May 23, 1971, in Montbéliard, Jérôme Phalippou has a diverse professional history that informs his current work. Before dedicating his full time to the arts, he served as a customs officer at Châtel in Haute-Savoie, located on the French-Swiss border. This professional background is reflected in his personal history, as he is the son of a customs officer.

Phalippou’s transition to a full-time career in comics and illustration was driven by a lifelong passion for drawing. Based in Abondance, he now focuses on telling the historical stories of the surrounding villages through his art.

His portfolio includes several notable works and collaborations:

• Le Merlu: A series created in collaboration with Thierry Dubois about a truck driver involved in the Resistance in occupied France. In this partnership, Dubois provides the storyboards, which Phalippou then adapts and develops based on the scenario.
• Les aventures de Betsy
• Les Mini-Sapiens
• 14-18 la Grande Guerre

Phalippou’s versatility as a creator is evidenced by his roles as an illustrator, draftsman, colorist, and screenwriter. His work often intersects with historical themes, a trend continued in his current exploration of the Abondance Abbey.