Dzama, Martineau and Zack: A Montreal Hat Trick
Marcel Dzama The Work of Justice and Revenge is Done 2007 Courtesy of the artist and David Zwirner New York
Montrealers are in for a treat this winter with the Musée d’art contemporain kicking off another promising triple-header. Topping the marquee is a much-anticipated exhibition by Winnipeg wunderkind Marcel Dzama. With some 60 pieces produced over the last three years showcased in this largest solo museum show to date, “Aux mille tours (Of Many Turns)” is a deft exploration of the artist’s multifaceted practice and his enduring fascination with themes of nostalgia, early modernism and the relationships between irony and cynicism, politics and subjectivity. Drawing on a rich repertoire of artistic and literary references, from pre-war children’s book illustration to Dante to James Joyce to Duchamp, Dzama transforms seemingly arbitrary imagery into a sort of mythology that befits the politics of our time. Joining Dzama is fellow Sobey 2009 finalist Luanne Martineau. Best known for her hybrid felt and wool sculptures, Martineau’s elusive practice has been challenging the underpinnings of American avant-garde art with an uncanny amalgamation of craft and art. The exhibition features a dozen recent works, including an artist’s book, felt sculptures, drawings and what Martineau calls “drulptures”—a unique combination of the latter two disciplines. As she breaks down the boundaries between figurative and abstract, art and craft, Martineau skilfully creates a tension between her unsettling subjects and her use of soft, pastel-coloured textile materials. Finally, more than 20 paintings by Montreal artist Étienne Zack, who was featured in the Quebec Triennial, round out MACM’s hat-trick for the season. (185 rue Ste-Catherine O, Montreal QC)
| |
|
Luanne Martineau Aidan’s Fiddle 2009 Courtesy Aidan Larock / photo John Dean |
| |
|
Étienne Zack Comers and Goers 2006 Courtesy Equinox Gallery Vancouver / photo Guy L’Heureux |
Subscribe to Canadian Art today and save 30% off the newstand price.
