40.6 x 30.5 cm
Ex Libris is more than an exhibition; it is an exploration of how books shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. Through his meticulous technique and evocative imagery, Paul Béliveau reaffirms the power of books to inspire, challenge, and endure.
Duran Contemporain Gallery is proud to present Ex Libris, a compelling solo exhibition by acclaimed artist Paul Béliveau, running from January 16 to February 8, 2025. This highly anticipated exhibition will feature four captivating series of paintings-Vanitas, Suite Morandi, Autodafé, and Équilibration-all centered on books as symbols and subjects of artistic exploration.
Through these series, Béliveau delves into the enduring cultural and aesthetic significance of books. His masterful paintings examine themes of knowledge, history, and the fragile balance between creation and destruction, offering a rich tapestry of ideas for viewers to reflect upon.
• Vanitas: A poignant meditation on impermanence and the passage of time, with books serving as metaphors for ephemerality and human existence.
• Suite Morandi: Inspired by the still life compositions of Giorgio Morandi, this series harmonizes books with other objects, creating serene and contemplative arrangements that evoke timeless beauty.
• Autodafé: A haunting exploration of censorship and the destruction of knowledge, highlighting the historical and symbolic weight of books under threat.
• Équilibration: A series that juxtaposes the physical fragility of books with themes of intellectual and cultural balance, emphasizing their precarious yet vital role in human progress.
