Scènes de ville
Approach
LANDSCAPES
Over the years, Patrick Rodrigue has been painting landscapes as well. The greater Charlevoix region, located near Quebec City, is his main source of inspiration. In his figurative paintings, the artist expresses the fullness of these large open spaces by exploiting the relief particularities of the land, the layout of houses and animals, and the omnipresence of the river in the background. The creation of landscapes allows the artist to perform a more gestural painting that promotes a freer expression and increased spontaneity. Always evolving in his artistic approach, Patrick Rodrigue paints contemporary figurative landscapes in an increasingly suggestive way. Drawn to a less defined pictorial treatment, the artist encourages a more personal interpretation of the subject in the spectator's mind. Particular moods and ambiances are thus obtained, as well as strong effects of depth.
URBAN SCENES
A keen observer of his surroundings, Patrick Rodrigue has had his studio in Quebec City for the last twenty years. The downtown architecture and the lively streets stimulate him daily. His inspiration comes from public places, the roofs of the Old Quarters, skylights, backyards, trees and flowerboxes, and the ever-present city dwellers. Patrick Rodrigue’s urban landscapes are characterized by their dynamic composition in which notions of space and depth are always prevalent. The viewpoints are original, the design is definite and perspectives are clear. The refinement and luminosity of their colours are especially appreciated.
EMERGENCES
More recently, some of Patrick Rodrigue’s works of art are taking a new direction. Like a third branch emerging from the tree of his artistic creations, this new creative orientation features figurative elements emerging in an abstract context. Figuration and abstraction blend in compositions where the portrait is the central element, the identity of the painting, while secondary elements on the periphery define a theme, or tell a story. These contemporary figurative paintings are made of acrylic on wood panels and also include elements of drawing and collage.