Laconia Gallery is pleased to present the new works of Liette Marcil. She is originally from Montreal, Canada and has been a Laconia Lofts resident for over a decade. The inspiration for her abstract paintings comes from aboriginal and primitive art from Native American, Australian and African cultures. The verticality of her work suggests totems. The patterns suggest swatches of textiles forming a collage. Figures and masks appear. A playfulness and rich use of color are carried throughout her work. Building on that, she adds more intensity and presents an abundant, refined and powerful new collection.

These paintings introduce an architectural theme. The verticality in her work still predominates but Marcil begins to show a ying and yang effect – saturated color separated from more monochromatic themes. The result is mesmerizing and puzzling. Is this the new world emerging from our colorful roots? Is it the apocalypse that we are heading for? What was in her mind? As it turns out, when you speak to the artist, she explains that it is what emerged as she painted. Perhaps the plan is hardwired in the subconscious of this artist and somehow her totems are released as she paints.

Marcil has a painstaking approach to her painting. She works with oil and acrylic paints, graphite, color pencils and wax to build the depth and richness of her art. She applies these to canvas, wood panels and paper. She works in sections and the patterns are revealed as she moves around the surface of the painting. Some sections move to the foreground, others to the back. She works tirelessly until she is satisfied with the results. To live with her artwork is to make new discoveries every day.

This collection is the latest evolution of a personal journey that began when only a child. The need to make art and grow as an artist is a passion that few can know. This has been Marcil’s life theme. Her body of work demonstrates an evolution that tells a story of an ever changing and maturing style.

To be in a room surrounded by this work is truly to be transported to another place. Liette Marcil will take you there.