Exhibition Off-ste
Ultime Dialogue, Roland Poulin, 2020
Roland Poulin, Ultime Dialogue, 2012, Patinated brass and stainless steel. Courtesy of the artist. Photo : Michel Dubreuil.
Ultime Dialoguewas showcased at the Musée d'art de Joliette in 2020. First showned at Battat Contemporary in 2012, Ultime Dialogue surprises with its verticality, whereas Poulin has, until now, mainly exploited horizontality within his work. Facing each other at a respectful distance, two trapezoidal monoliths seem attracted through their inclination, highlighting the internal tensions which animate them. As with many of the artist's sculptures, the choice of materials for Ultime Dialogue allows light to reflect off its surface, which is beautifully enhanced by its placement here, close to the Rivière l'Assomption.
Roland Poulin was born in St. Thomas, Ontario, but grew up in Montreal, where his family settled in 1944. An alumnus of the École des beaux-arts de Montréal, he studied there from 1964 to 1969. Although initially drawn to painting, Poulin has devoted himself exclusively to sculpture since the 1970s. A leading figure in the Quebec art scene, he helped found the contemporary art magazine Parachute and taught sculpture at l’École des arts visuels de l’Université Laval and at the University of Ottawa.
Detached from trends, Roland Poulin slowly carved himself a unique place in the sculpture community by engaging the viewer through the themes of death and the sacred. His contribution to the modern history of sculpture is now as undeniable as his international recognition; not a year has gone by since 1971, where a work by Poulin was not exhibited here or abroad. His presence in museums and the impressive number of writings about his oeuvre confirm his notoriety.
Roland Poulin's work embraces universal archetypes with remarkable rigor and intent, always maintaining a deeply personal touch. Far from being simplistic, his art is innovative and daring. Striving for a balance between figuration and abstraction, Poulin seeks to connect with all dimensions of existence, engaging the viewer on an intimate level. The dark beauty of his sculptures invites reflections on spirituality, life, growth, and death, evoking the inner tension that arises from these reflections.
This text is derived from the Musée d'art de Joliette.
Learn more about Roland Poulin.
