SHERBROOKE: If you haven’t already checked out the works of Marc-Aurèle Fortin at the Musée des Beaux Arts de Sherbrooke, this exhibition will be on display until October 6, developed and being circulated by the musée national des beaux-arts du Québec.

Paysages modernes du Québec traditionnel consists of thirty rural and marine scenes produced in oils or gouache, between 1910 and the 1950s. The works have been grouped both by subject and by pictorial technique, with the aim of demonstrating how painting can be associated with tradition by thematic choices as well as, paradoxically, by the expression of a certain modernity in these choices.

Marc-Aurèle Fortin produced the bulk of his work between 1910 and the beginning of the 1950s. At that time, the art world of Québec was undergoing a series of upheavals which heralded the beginning of modern and abstract painting. These transformations did not happen from one day to the next, or without resistance. The time between the wars can be considered as a period of transition during a period in which artistic practice was sometimes subjected to contradictory influences. Many artists followed modern trends while still remaining tied, in some aspects, to traditional ways. Fortin finds himself in this category.

During his career, Fortin dedicated himself primarily to the painting of Québec landscapes, with a distinct focus on traditional forms even in urban scenes. On the other hand, the bold technique he uses in these works allies him with more progressive tendencies. In exposing the paradox of these thematic and stylistic choices of Fortin, this exhibition of paintings in oil and gouache demonstrates how this artist has come to be associated with both tradition and modernity.

This particular exhibition is being presented by Hydro-Quebec. The MBAS is located at 241 Dufferin, Sherbrooke. Admission: $ 10, adult; $ 8, senior; and $ 7, student. Family rates are available. Guided tours in English or group tours: advance reservations required. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming events: www.mbas.qc.ca