Jeraume Levesque
Interview & Photography / Catherine Bernier
Jeraume is an artist, illustrator and creative projects lead based in Montreal, Quebec. His attraction to applied arts dates back to his early years, with his academic journey interwoven with multiple immersive experiences in this realm. Engaging in various courses, he gradually sculpted a fervent passion. The artist manifests his profound love for art primarily through pencil drawings. Immersing himself in themes intertwined with places, spatial design, and, above all, everyday objects and furniture, he explores these elements through a vibrant mosaic of colors, often favoring primary hues, and abstract forms.
Deeply attuned to the emotions that stir within him, the artist embraces them as guiding forces, dictating the choice of colors, the stroke of the pencil, and even the titles of his works. Disciplined in his artistic practice, Jeraume places singular importance on exploration through various mediums while maintaining fidelity to the subtle framework of his artistic approach.
On a calm day of November, I met Jeraume in the middle of his week of residence at the cabin. The artist temper was blending perfectly with the peacefulness of the place. Everything in the cabin was so organized and tidy. Even the blanket he brought matches the colors he likes to work with. We can tell that Jeraume has a great eye for design.
What were your intentions for the residency and how did it go?
When I first booked the residency, my intentions were twofold. Firstly, I sought to experience something entirely different, challenging myself by embracing solitude in a location that triggered my phobia of the dark in the woods. The idea of achieving this alone was a personal milestone. Secondly, I aimed to use this time to create a larger artwork, pushing myself to engage in a more substantial and infrequent artistic endeavor.
The residency served as an opportunity to break away from my routine and immerse myself in an environment that would foster both personal and creative growth. Reflecting on the experience, it was transformative. The solitude allowed me to delve deep into my creative process, resulting in a larger and more meaningful artwork than I had anticipated. The quietude and isolation served as a catalyst for introspection, influencing the thematic and emotional depth of my creation.
Tell us about your future projects.
Exciting times ahead! I'm gearing up for my next creative projects, continuing collaborations with artists, design studios, and larger clients. Simultaneously, I'm working on my first solo exhibition set to debut in Montreal at the beginning of the summer. While details are still in progress, this solo venture marks a significant turning point, offering a platform for my individual artistic vision. Stay tuned for updates as I delve into this exciting journey of both collaboration and solo expression!
“ The quietude and isolation served as a catalyst for introspection, influencing the thematic and emotional depth of my creation.”
- Jeraume
Would you recommend this art residency to other artists and why?
The serene ocean surroundings inspire artistic creation, offering tranquility and scenic beauty for a unique source of inspiration. Moments of tranquility foster a peaceful atmosphere, enhancing mental space for creativity. Breathtaking views provide visual stimuli, enriching artistic expression. The comfortable cabin ensures a pleasant living space, contributing to a positive and immersive creative process. In summary, this residency combines a comfortable environment with natural beauty, fostering a holistic experience for artists seeking both creative and personal enrichment.
Follow Jeraume / @jeraume
Portraits by Catherine Bernier / @cath.be
