In his third solo show at MKG127, Winnipeg artist Michael Dumontier‘s further contemplation of the most basic objects of everyday existence reveals a simultaneously broadened and simplified project of reduction, abstraction and material improvisation. These works are a conundrum and a revelation: some are handmade, while others are machined; some materials are disguised, while others speak plainly. Imagery plays like music: a fading moon is seen through stretched canvas rather than adhered to it; an illuminated dot pulses and moves in the circular motion of a clock behind a square linen screen. The interplay of forms and materials is poignant and revelatory, as the simplest of things reveal the most mystic of truths. Michael Dumontier co-founded The Royal Art Lodge collective in 1996 and continued as one of the three remaining members with Marcel Dzama and Neil Farber from 2003 until they officially concluded the RAL in 2008. He continues to work with Farber, meeting every Wednesday to collaborate on paintings and drawings. In 2014, the two were shortlisted for the Sobey Art Award. He has collaborated with numerous other artists, including Micah Lexier. Since 2011, Dumontier and Lexier have maintained Call Ampersand Response, an ongoing image exchange project. Independently, Dumontier has presented solo exhibitions in Winnipeg, New York, Boston, and Padua, Italy. Dumontier’s work is held in international private and public collections, including The National Gallery of Canada, The Vancouver Art Gallery, Folkwang Museum, FRAC Picardie, Fondation Antoine de Galbert, and Centro de Arte Caja de Burgos. Shape Notes Review |