MÉMOIRES ABSTRACT COLLAGE SERIES

JULIE BRETON | MÉMOIRES No.4 - abstract collage

JULIE BRETON | MÉMOIRES No.2 - abstract collage

THE MÉMOIRES séries of collage and paintings is part of an effort to record what goes on in the mind. Using multiple photographic reference, I document the various subjects and the emotions they communicate through the use of vivid colours, sharp angles and organic lines. Working with layers of mixed media, I create a composition reminiscent of the fleeting moment. 

I explore new materials and techniques using translucent paper as a support. I use graphite, coloured pencil, paper, canvas, acrylic & gesso in layers of various transparency. I have also been using vintage photographs and postcard found in my favourite local antique shop for the nostalgia they evoke.

ART EXPLORATION

JULIE BRETON | ART STUDIO

JULIE BRETON | ART EXPLORATION

In an attempt to discover and grow as an artist I often experiment with new media, supports and subjects. I work with transparent velum to which I add layers of graphite, acrylic paint, coloured pencil, dry pastel & markers. I see what happens and then adjust from there trying to find new materials, media and subjects to work with.

With a specific subject in mind, I stain raw canvas with dark colours followed by layers of lighter hues. I draw marks with graphite, charcoal, pastel and conté blending them to the previous layers. I even work with gigantic canvases on the grass outside the studio. These all serve one purpose, to open up my mind and grow as an artist.

You can follow my experiments and discoveries on Instagram below.

MADAME BOVARY

JULIE BRETON ART | MADAME BOVARY ABSTRACT

JULIE BRETON ART | MADAME BOVARY PRINT

Exasperated with Madame Bovary's character in Gustave Flaubert's classic French novel, I was inspired to paint an abstract with colours reminding me of that era. The result is a textural use of blush against a moody blue background.

Flaubert's novel takes place in provincial France and follows Emma Bovary's adulterous life. It caused quite a commotion and was attacked for obscenity by public prosecutors of the time. 

Published in 1856, the novel is now part of the public domain and is considered a master piece of French literature.

Exaspérée par le personnage de Madame Bovary dans le roman historique de Gustave Flaubert, j'ai décidée de peindre en utilisant des couleurs me rappelant cette époque. L'oeuvre avec ses textures, est une étude de couleurs blanc cassé et rose pâle sur fond tumultueux de bleu foncé.

Le roman de Flaubert se déroule près de Rouen en Normandie. Il raconte l'histoire d'Emma Bovary femme aldutère aux prises d'un ennuie totale de la vie provinciale. L'auteur fut pursuivit en justice pour "Outrage à la morale publique, religieuse et aux bonnes moeurs". Publiée en 1856, l'oeuvre fait maintenant parti du domaine publique.