From February 17 through April 1^st, 2022, the Espace VERRE gallery will present Atemporel an exhibition featuring works by Gilles Payette. Fascinated by glass because of its transparency and fragility, Gilles first used this material for an exhibition in 1990. As a glass sculptor striving for excellency, the artist has specialized in the sandcasting technique for more than three decades. In his experimentation, he has manipulated sand to create a mold where molten glass will be inserted as to translate the exactitude of his artistic thought. The exhibition’s opening will be in the presence of the artist on Friday, February 18 at 6 pm.

Atemporel is that timeless moment where everything becomes possible because of creation. In the gallery space, the intimately placed works are simultaneously fiery and gentle, imbued with poetry as much for their textures as for their lighting effect. An object can be perceived differently according to the state of mind of the observer. While working with glass, the artist plays with transparency and colours, folds the form and breaks the mold to deconstruct what protects, envelops us. He researches vulnerability and introspection. This quest almost becomes spiritual, sacred. See-through appearances and customs, opening one’s heart and thus making indifference tremble.

In his practice where glass becomes a vector of lightness, Gilles Payette opens a dialogue on the hollow, the hidden, what is unperceived at first glance. He encourages questioning and the courage to freely communicate ideas, as well as feelings. Fragments, presences and encounters sneak their way into the four corners of the gallery under a halo of warm light. An enchanting tête-à-tête with sublime works awaits the public.

Gilles Payette lives and works in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. He graduated from the sculpture school of Saint-Jean-Port-Joli in 1973. Following this, Gilles taught wood sculpting for several years and continued his molding research at a bronze and aluminum foundry. While working with glass, bronze, aluminum and wood, he opened a studio in 1995. Recipient of numerous scholarships, Gilles Payette continues his exploration with glass and presents his work both in Canada and the United States. Atemporel is his twelfth solo exhibition

Espace VERRE is a glass creativity centre located at 1200 Mill Street in Montreal. The gallery is open for visits  Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as well as the last Sunday of every month, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

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Photos: Gilles Payette
Graphic design: BERGER.studio

Source:
Narges Qurban, Communications Manager
communication@espaceverre.qc.ca
514-933-6849