On se souviendra assurément de la réflexion d’un jeune cycliste sherbrookois
émerveillé devant des néons lumineux dans le ciel :
« C’est comme une poésie dans la ville. »*
Montreal, April 16, 2019 – On April 5, Gérald Collard passed away from cancer at the age of 60. A true neon master, Gérald will be forever remembered as one of Espace VERRE’s founding teaching staff since 1988. During his prolific career, he participated in the creation of more than a dozen commercial neon studios throughout Quebec and Ontario. His many collaborations with glass-related institutions and events brought him from Corning, New York, to Barcelona, Spain, as well as to Italy and Haiti.
| Until the fall of 2018, Gérald taught the basics of neon work to the glass school’s first-year college students. With great wit, he shared his knowledge of flameworking by giving demonstrations in various schools and cultural institutions with his Petite École du Verre. In more recent years, he founded the Neon Family studio, embellishing the streets and businesses of Montreal with his luminous creations, and coaching emerging neon artists. |
He will be remembered as a warm and humble man that was truly passionate about his work. All of Espace VERRE’s community – students, past and present; teaching, technical, and administrative staffs; as well as the Board of Directors – sends its deepest condolences to the Collard family and close friends. His memory will shine on within the hearts of those he met along the way.
All who wish to celebrate Gérald’s life can offer their personal condolences at an informal gathering held on Sunday, April 28, between noon and 7 p.m. at the Le Lucie restaurant, located at 234 Fleury West in Montreal.
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| *To view a Fabrique culturelle video featuring Gérald Collard (in French): https://www. |
| Source: Valérie Paquin, Communications Manager communication@espaceverre.qc. 514.933.6849 |