Page 99 - Top 10 Contemporary Artists | VoL 7
P. 99
the scenarios for his performances were based on one Currently, Grégoire primarily focuses on painting,
of his sculptures, or his interactions with materials would although he recently created a monumental work
evolve into a sculpture themselves. His performances by transforming an old sailboat into a contemporary
have been showcased at numerous art festivals across sculpture. Despite his current focus, all mediums
the globe, including Italy, Finland, France, Germany, China, continue to hold a place in his creative process.
Japan, and Canada. To enhance these theatrical actions, An important addition to Grégoire’s artistic journey
sound became an essential element. Grégoire incorporated has been osteology. Bone collecting, a hobby from his
music into his work and public presentations. Alongside youth, gained prominence when he moved to Îles-de-la-
his visual art pursuits, he was the singer and saxophonist Madeleine, islands in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Here,
for a band that performed in Montreal bars for five years, the frequent beaching of marine mammals sparked his
culminating in a CD produced by Ambiance Magnétique, interest in skeleton reassembly. One notable project is
a notable music producer in Quebec. the mounting of a sperm whale skeleton in the hall of the
Grégoire’s love for words is evident in his work. He Musée de la Mer des Îles de la Madeleine. This engagement
enjoys writing and speaking, and the incorporation with anatomy has profoundly influenced his art, leading
of text, phrases, and words has become a significant to the incorporation of bones in his sculptures and
aspect of his artistic production. The titles of his works anatomically accurate depictions of humans and animals.
often add layers of meaning, not necessarily to explain Grégoire’s fascination with death and his surroundings of
but to complement his artistic intent. Over the years, bones have significantly shaped his artistic expression. His
he has written four novels and served as a columnist works often reflect his obsession with mortality, creating a
for a decade in the art magazine “Esse” in Montreal. poignant narrative that resonates with viewers.
THE TRAIN THAT KILLED NARCISSE 1, 2003 SCULPTURE (WOOD) 20X10FT. | 6X3 M
99