Juy 14 to September 3, 2016
La Guilde proudly presented Pulpe fiction, an exhibition by artist SYLVAIN RIVARD, in the context of the MONTREAL FIRST PEOPLES FESTIVAL and in collaboration with LAND INSIGHTS. The artworks by this multidisciplinary artist depict a world nearer to First Nations’ identity than to that of the Québécois. The main part of his work draws a portrait of contemporary ethnographic art which lies beyond cultural hybridity. Through a dozen creations, Pulpe fiction proposed a reinterpretation of the Abenaki nation’s mythical and legendary culture.
The artist’s works participate in the modernizing of techniques and gestures used in the fashioning of baskets; for example, in addition to the traditionally used ash splints in basket-making, he also uses different types of papers. These are handmade or recycled and come from as far as Nepal or Cuba. In keeping with his line of thought, this exhibition was a continuation of his minute research on various fibres and pulps, as well as on tangible and intangible cultures.
SYLVAIN RIVARD
Born in Montreal, Sylvain Rivard is a multidisciplinary artist and author specialized in First Nations arts and cultures. After studying fine arts at the Cégep du Vieux Montréal, he completed a certificate in multidisciplinary studies and a micro program in children’s literature. His extensive knowledge has led him to work as consultant for museums and academic institutions. He tries to integrate traditional knowledge and fine crafts in the contemporary world and uses his understanding of ancient craft techniques in his collages. His work in visual arts has been presented at the Grande Bibliothèque de Montréal, the Huron-Wendat Museum in Wendake, the Maison de la culture Ahuntsic-Cartierville, the Musée des Abénakis d'Odanak, as well as the Maison des Gouverneurs de Sorel-Tracy.
“I try, using ancient techniques, such as those originally used in basketry, to create a contemporary ethnological art form closer to Aboriginal identity, one which goes beyond cultural hybridity. I have a question for you! Why leave artifacts in the hands of scientists and art in those of First Nations artists when a syncretism is possible?”
- Sylvain Rivard