Manuel Mathieu (Bilingual edition)

This publication explores the profound impact of Haiti on Manuel Mathieu's artistic journey, blending personal and political narratives through vibrant paintings.

This comprehensive publication delves into the intricate explorations of Haitian Canadian artist Manuel Mathieu. Over the past few years, his work has been deeply informed by his family's homeland, Haiti. Through vibrant paintings, Mathieu reflects on the complex revolutionary history of Haiti, unearthing the traumatized subconscious that has been shaped by the oppressive and violent Duvalier dictatorships. His art serves as a poignant reminder of the erasure of memories that many have endured, blending personal narratives with broader political themes.

Manuel Mathieu (Bilingual edition) showcases the artist's unique approach, merging abstraction with figuration. He employs a distinctive technique of rubbing and scraping layers of paint from found photographs, which allows him to reintroduce impastoed snarls of color. This method not only highlights the emotional depth of his work but also emphasizes the interplay between memory and identity. Mathieu's art becomes a canvas for dialogue about the past and present, inviting viewers to engage with the complexities of Haitian history.

Positioned at the intersection of political and environmental crises, Mathieu's work reflects Haiti's ongoing quest for self-determination. He uses this lens to explore a broader global longing for freedom and grassroots resistance against imperialist and capitalist forces. Through Manuel Mathieu (Bilingual edition), readers gain insight into how art can illuminate the struggles for justice and identity in a rapidly changing world.