Artist Brigitte Dahan to create a fresco in the Espace Riopelle café

As part of the major Espace Riopelle – Pavillon Michael Audain project, a call for proposals was issued last fall to artisans who are members of the Conseil des métiers d’art du Québec. The aim was to find an artist to create a ceramic fresco that would enrich the café’s décor. Following a rigorous selection process, we are delighted to announce that the fresco will be created by visual artist Brigitte Dahan.

“Brigitte Dahan’s proposal won over the selection committee thanks to the sensitivity with which it echoes Riopelle’s inspirations. Her proposal also stood out for the technical and aesthetic qualities with which it incorporates references to the artist’s world and the techniques he used. She is offering us an abstract landscape reminiscent of the vast natural spaces that were so dear to Riopelle.” – Caroline Lantagne, curator and head of the selection committee

Inspired by the world of Jean Paul Riopelle, and particularly his work Tribute to Rosa Luxemburg (1992), the fresco will reflect the pavilion’s identity and blend harmoniously with the existing space.

Inspiration and artistic approach

When designing this fresco, Brigitte Dahan was inspired by some of Riopelle’s own techniques, including stencilling. Natural elements were used to mould shapes and create volume in the clay. The fresco will feature textures and hollows reminiscent of the spatula strokes and impastos found in some of Riopelle’s works.

The natural hues of the fresco will also be enhanced with matte and gloss glazes in colours such as green, blue, and orange.

As with the triptych in Tribute to Rosa Luxemburg, the fresco will be divided into three superimposed horizontal sections. Each section will be associated with an element of nature: earth, water, and the sky.

Earth

This section will feature patterns forming a fine network of textures that can be observed from up close. They will evoke rocky sediments or fossils, as found in rock and earth.

Water

To complement the clay, recycled glass will be used to create an effect comparable to a smooth, transparent puddle. This section echoes the future Espace Riopelle, which will boast breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River.

Sky

In addition to using sky white and blue hues for this section, the artist will add birds, inspired once again by Riopelle’s work.

Brigitte Dahan

Visual artist Brigitte Dahan has a BFA from the Université du Québec à Montréal and specializes mainly in clay sculpture. Through her work, she explores the relationship between humans and nature, depicting the cycles of life and the diversity of the living world. The organic textures that adorn her sculptures bear witness to the passage of time and the perpetual transformation of matter.