Opening: Saturday, May 11 at 2 p.m.
To mark its thirtieth anniversary, on May 11, 2019 Galerie Simon Blais will launch the exhibition Depuis 30 ans – Maintenant. It will provide an opportunity to once again demonstrate the values the Montréal institution has upheld since its beginnings: parity, collaboration and family. Since couple Sylvie Cataford and Simon Blais founded it in May 1989, the gallery has set a contemporary example of gender parity in its stable of artists. And, as in a big family, both emerging and the most experienced artists work together on group exhibition projects as well as share the spotlight at the same time at show openings.
On the occasion of this exhibition, Galerie Simon Blais staff will offer an overview of the 30 artists whose work it has championed for 30 years through 30 short texts explaining their place in the gallery’s ecosystem. From personal favourites to artworks of seminal influence, the idea is to show pieces that are representative of each artist at a landmark moment in the gallery’s history. The 30 statements accompanying the works will provide insight into the complex challenges guiding the decisions of those involved in the activities of one of Montréal’s oldest galleries presenting contemporary art.
Although all of Galerie Simon Blais’ galleries will be paying tribute to its artists, one of them will be doing so from a different perspective. The works on display there will highlight some of the past exhibitions that have shaped the gallery, offering a chance to view art by Riopelle, Molinari, Miró, Ferron, and other greats. Come see and you’ll understand how Galerie Simon Blais,midway as it is between a museum and a contemporary art gallery, has been able to steer its course over three decades.
Among the artists whose work will be on view are Carol Bernier, Jean-Sébastien Denis, Michel Goulet, Isabelle Guimond, Rita Letendre, Yann Pocreau, Marc Séguinand Françoise Sullivan.
With its photo contest (on until April 30), artist-ambassadors and open house, it’s very likely you will be hearing a lot about the gallery during the coming months. This exhibition provides a great opportunity to come see the gallery for the first time, as well as a fine reason for a return visit!
La Galerie Simon Blais a maintenant 30 ans ! from Galerie Simon Blais on Vimeo.
