Hi there!

I have been a serious artist for most of my life, since I first grab a color pencil when I was around 3.

I studied classic art at a private school, where I learned oil painting and Great Masters techniques. Then I went to Concordia University to study contemporary arts. 

I had my studio for over 20 years now. I like to explore different genres. I usually spend a few years in figurative, then  a few years in abstract. I don't like to label myself or constrain my art.

For me, painting is an escape. Since I was born, I felt I don't belong on this strange planet. I'm not really sure why I'm here, and I certainly don't always enjoy the ride. My art is an imprint of where I think I'm coming from - a realm where colors, lights and shapes are alive.

I tried for many years to make an artist statement. Teachers and collectors were adamant I needed one (preferably something very intellectual, with cryptic adverbs). I finally gave up and just admit: I don't have one. I paint because I need to paint. It's a necessity. I would go as far as saying it's a survival tool.

I spent the last few years painting landscapes and animal portraits. And now I feel the itch of switching to abstraction again. I am therefore working on a new collection.

Don't hesitate to contact me!

Emmanuelle

emmanuellerivard@gmail.com