Collection: Clement Lemieux

As the family grew, Clément began to develop an interest in woodworking and furniture making. He eventually turned away from cabinetmaking to take carving classes and hone his skills. As the student surpassed the master, he only completed 30 hours of the carving course. He then closed his judo school to become a full-time artist, in addition to his role as a father of 12 children. His passion for judo gave him a deep understanding of the human body, which enriches the way he creates and positions his figures. While continuing to sculpt, he also developed his talent for abstract painting, which gave him extensive experience with color.

He incorporates a part of himself into his sculptures. "You know, you can know the technique, but the rest is you." His wooden sculptures are then colored and then revarnished, in successive layers, to give them that distinctive lacquered appearance. His figures always stand shoulder to shoulder, their endless limbs beautifully merging. Clément looks at his work, meditative, and clarifies his thoughts: "Each type of wood has its constraints. You overcome them, and that's how you learn. Then you put your soul into it. But your soul also has constraints, and wood helps you overcome them!" he declares, his eyes shining.

Clément Lemieux is a fine example of a Canadian artist whose beginnings were rather unorthodox but who has demonstrated that it is never too late to develop a passion for art.