LORENZO DUPUIS, "Recent Work," April 18 to May 14, 2009, The Gallery / Art Placement, Saskatoon

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"Market Gathering"

Lorenzo Dupuis, "Market Gathering," acrylic on panel, 19" X 24".

LORENZO DUPUIS, Recent Work

The Gallery / Art Placement, Saskatoon

April 18 to May 14, 2009

By Patricia Robertson

Saskatoon painter Lorenzo Dupuis started working with crowd scenes and portraits about a year and a half ago. Prior to that shift, the veteran artist concerned himself primarily with landscapes and the occasional still life. “I use a small digital camera to capture moments of life at markets, in malls and on streets during different types of weather,” Dupuis explains. “I’m attracted by faces and gestures that say something about people, possibly about what they’re thinking and feeling.” Dupuis’ new works — Market Vendor, Market - Selling Pumpkins and Market - Gathering embody an earthy prairie sensibility that reflects Saskatchewan’s agricultural roots. The social and cultural importance of market day to locals is reflected in the intensity of focus of the market vendors as they sell their wares. Dupuis lists among his influences the Dutch masters — his market subjects are rich, colourful and dynamic, with an emphasis on emotionality reflected in the layered brushwork. “One of my favourite 17th century Dutch painters is Frans Hals,” Dupuis says. “His portraits speak deeply about his subjects. His use of paint is incredible. I love his quick fresh marks. As well as being descriptive, they tell us something about the artist.”