Greetings,
A few days before my departure, I am pleased to send you this short message. During my functions of these passed 22 years, I have rubbed shoulders with many genuine glass art enthusiasts. This special bond that connects me to the glass realm was formed because of the collaboration and creativity of many students, teachers, glass artists, associates, collectors, suppliers and gallery owners/directors that I have met along the way. The glass art community of Québec is a microcosm of our society in addition to being a secret that is well-kept. Even though, many glass artists have achieved national and international recognition in their field.
It is with great honour and pleasure that I worked in this artistic universe, while contributing to its many successes. While defending the interests of the glass arts with our partners and organisations, I organized the GAAC Conference in 2010, supervised the coordination of major renovation work of our building in 2008-2009 and planned the revision of the college program in 2020, hired glass artists to generously pass on their knowledge, built-up a collection of glass works by glass artists associated with our activities, collaborated with my colleagues of the other fine craft schools of Québec to promote and defend our interests, and countless other tasks.
There are hundreds of people that I wish to thank in this message. You, with whom I learned this marvelous field. You, that enriched me with your reflections, comments and critiques. You, who, as administrators, have paved the way for the future. You, who have shown your generosity as a benefactor or partner. You, who have worked as a team to maintain equipment, plan exhibitions, ensure rigorous accounting management and receive our customers with excellence. Each and everyone of you, I thank you. It was our team spirit that contributed to the success of Espace VERRE.
The foundations of this institution, unique in Québec, have been anchored for nearly 40 years within the reality of today’s world. There is still an interest for this artistic profession. We attract young people from abroad, with our college program. The careers of several glass artists are flourishing; they travel the world exhibiting their works, and are invited to transmit their knowledge to new generations of creators. The soil is fertile for future crops. Emerging glass artists have been able to count on the Fusion incubator, for 30 years now, to start their careers. Our gallery offers the public many opportunities to admire creativity, originality and excellence. Our promotional activities allow the public to learn about the different glass techniques, to blow unique Christmas ornaments and to offer or acquire local and original gifts. The future is bright and the team is in place to continue the mission to which I have contributed wholeheartedly. I am happy to pass the torch on to the new Executive Director, Marina Dobel. In this old fire station, the flame of glass art creativity is certainly not going out anytime soon.
It is with a heavy heart that this beautiful adventure ends and a new one begins for me, with wonderful memories, friends among you and the hope of seeing you again soon.
Best regards to you all.
Christian Poulin
| Source Narges Qurban, Communications & Marketing manager 514-933-6849 communication@espaceverre.qc.c |