ANDRE MONET

Sometimes, there are twists of fate that radically change the course of lives. In 2008, while passing through Montreal, actress Halle Berry visited an art gallery and stood fascinated before a portrait of Yves Saint-Laurent. She decided to buy it, without knowing that she would launch an artist’s career. The artist in question was André Monet. After several years as a graphic designer in the fashion and advertising industries, he embarked on a full-time artistic career. Inspired by Andy Warhol, his style relies on a technique that is all his own. The background of the painting is made of various collages, often newspaper clippings, in relation to the personality that he immortalises in the drawing. His pencil line is so precise that, at first glance, his work could be mistaken for a photograph. In 2014, when he was exhibiting in London, the gallery manager suggested he make a portrait of the royal couple, William and Kate. The portraits toured the world and eventually assured his place within the artistic hall of fame. Today, André Monet exhibits his work all over the world and still lives in Montreal, his hometown, with his wife and two children. ... See more See less

Interview

Why photography?

What I do resembles photography but I’m a portrait artist, a painter. I take known faces, icons, and paint them by hand on a collage composed of a mix of paper, books, stamps, cards, and much more.

What is your inspiration, notably your artistic inspiration?

At university, I studied graphic design and then worked for several years in the world of fashion and advertising. These years greatly influenced me, the aesthetic, the sense of beauty, the power of the image and of the imagination. I mix the worlds of portraiture and design in my works. The final result, this relief behind the portrait has become my signature.

The context of creation of your new series?

I am always very pleased to embark upon a new project or a new series. I was pleasantly surprised when YK asked me to create a special series for their clients. New portraits for a new public that I am eager to discover.

Any anecdotes for us?

When I paint, I am always alone. The work of an artist is often rather solitary, alone with one’s work. I listen to a lot of music, from David Bowie to Drake. When we had our first child and my wife returned to work, our baby was often with me in my studio. He listened to music, my music, and I worked. He’s nearly 5 now and each time he hears David Bowie or Drake, without knowing why, he starts wanting to dance with me.

What are you most proud of recently?

Just before the pandemic, I had my first vernissage in Montreal, with hundreds of people, friends, paintings sold, and a smile on a woman’s face.

Your upcoming projects?

A series of nudes.

Your motto?

Be true.

Any crushes on YK pictures?

Thibaud Poirier Man Ray

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