A multi-disciplinary and self-taught artist, René Lemay (1934 - 2015) made his mark in contemporary realist painting for over 20 years. In any medium, he favours expressions of joy and life over academicism.  First in drawing and watercolour, and then in acrylic, etching, lacquer and bronze sculpture, his work celebrates the here and now.  His pieces have been featured in individual and collective exhibitions in North America and Asia, in prominent galleries and in public and private collections.

Born in Montréal, Canada in 1934, Lemay felt a strong inclination toward the arts since his early childhood. Despite this, he practiced various trades before finally giving free rein to his passion in 1983.  He learned ceramics and lithography and, in the 1970s and 1980s, founded an artisanal pottery studio and a publishing company.  He followed this atypical path back to the visual arts, later earning a reputation as a watercolourist. In 1990, he participated in his first of many professional exhibitions.  His subsequent works in acrylic known for their vibrant hues, liveliness and expressions of delight.

In the 1990s, Lemay began travelling extensively.  These travels marked a turning point in his artistic journey, as can be seen in his choice of colours and his painting subjects.  During this period, the Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Asia became the epicentres of his creative universe. He derived the inspiration for his works in Thailand, China, Bali, Vietnam and Singapore.  

Rene Lemay

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  1. The Fisherman
    The Fisherman
    61x71x14cm
    $3,500.00
  2. White Sail
    White Sail
    75x85x13cm
    $3,800.00
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