Perineum, the organic energy that lies in each and every one of us humans and animals and plants, this invisible yet powerful force is the unique inspiration behind Manuel Mathieu’s new exhibition unveiled March 5th at the Galeries Hugues Charbonneau. This impressive body of work, both in quality and in number, is a predecessor to the artists’ participation in the legendary 61e international art exposition, the Biennale di Venezia.
The exhibition features a wide array of tableaux, from seven larger painted toiles to smaller ones to three engravings and two mosaics. Interestingly, Montreal has had on Mathieu’s work, closely collaborating for this exhibition with local studios for both the mosaic and engraving aspect of certain of his works. His contemporary art pieces reflect the interaction between the “patina in our bodies and our interactions with the world” per Mathieu. Organic shapes filled the space with a contrast of shapes which evoke the human body and space in our world. There is certainly an abstract aspect to the pieces, with only one representing a human face, but there was certainly a continuity between the pieces around the room both in the oblong hashes, the colours blending burgundy, peach fuzz and turquoise.
Like any reporter worth her salt, I asked him a question about the “puissance vertical” which is present in most of his pieces, via little great lines to stronger bolder colours. He kindly answered my question by stating that in the abstraction there is dimension to add depth into his pieces to help the viewer understand the piece. This follows his philosophy where his art should be approachable, not only reserved for those with an art degree, a refreshing take for the modern art world.
The talented young artist has a bright future ahead, be it in the visual arts realm with new exhibitions in both Montreal and New York or in perfumery where he has recently dipped his toes. Matthieu is a very humble man, ready to ask for help, asking us whether the flow of the room felt right, taking questions with such calm. May his success in the contemporary art world be multiplied!
This author would like to emphasize how she lacks both experience and education in the fine arts. Nevertheless, she was able to truly enjoy the energy captured in Mathieu’s singular exhibition, an energy he brings to the art world. Everyone interested in seeing more art and immersing themselves is thus highly encouraged to visit the free and intriguing Perineum exhibition.
Perineum is from March 5 – April 11 at Galeries Hughes Charbonneau (372 St Catherine O)