Sweeping lines set into motion by light gliding along the sheen of a finished piece characterize the work of this stone sculptor. Working primarily in marble, the artist manages to convey both serenity and strength in his work.
Michel Beauvais born a member of the Kahnawake Mohawk Band, which is situated near Montreal, Quebec. The traditional lands of the Mohawk people stretch from near Montreal, Quebec to near present day Albany, New York. The Mohawk belong to the Iroquois confederation and they are known as keepers of the Eastern Door - guarding the Iroquois against invasions from the east. Michel grew up in Ste-Adele, a small town in the Laurentian Mountains, and was never far from the influence of the Mohawk community. His mother, who is of French descent, always ensured that he took the best from both cultures, and this unique blend is what gives direction to his life and his art.
Michel has always had a passion for drawing and first attempted soapstone carving at the age of 10, but not until 1987 after relocating to Vancouver, British Columbia, did he consider making his art a full-time pursuit. Through a process of trial and error, he developed his own unique style, one that marries the representational and the abstract.
The quarrying of much of his own stone from remote sites has become an integral part of the creative process as Michel draws on his inherent love of the land and its wildlife for inspiration. He prefers taking advantage of a stone's rough outline and allowing himself to be guided by intuition. Through his work Michel expresses not only the stories and legends of the Iroquois, but feelings which illuminate the extent of his imagination and spirit.
Michel takes pride and finds inspiration in the hopes and ideals of his forefathers, in particular his great-grandfather Louis Kenwetson, his grandfather Arthur Areuroktha and his father Maurice. Michel's artwork explores the culture of his Mohawk heritage through the incorporation of traditional native symbols and motifs. His work reflects a contemporary vision, strongly echoing the historic sense of style of the Mohawk people. Michel signs his pieces with his initials alongside a moose print, and by so doing, is carrying on the use of a Beauvais family mark.
Michel's sculptures are working their way into private collections worldwide as more people become familiar with his deep commitment to his art. His work has been exhibited in Montreal, Portland, Scottsdale, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Dallas, Victoria, Vancouver and Whistler.
Artist’s statement
"In my work I try to reflect, and be guided by a contemporary vision of the imagination, spirit and the historic sense of style of the Kahnawake Mohawk. As I work, the patterns and swirls of the marble guide me in finding the creation."
Michel Beauvais
Michel Beauvais born a member of the Kahnawake Mohawk Band, which is situated near Montreal, Quebec. The traditional lands of the Mohawk people stretch from near Montreal, Quebec to near present day Albany, New York. The Mohawk belong to the Iroquois confederation and they are known as keepers of the Eastern Door - guarding the Iroquois against invasions from the east. Michel grew up in Ste-Adele, a small town in the Laurentian Mountains, and was never far from the influence of the Mohawk community. His mother, who is of French descent, always ensured that he took the best from both cultures, and this unique blend is what gives direction to his life and his art.
Michel has always had a passion for drawing and first attempted soapstone carving at the age of 10, but not until 1987 after relocating to Vancouver, British Columbia, did he consider making his art a full-time pursuit. Through a process of trial and error, he developed his own unique style, one that marries the representational and the abstract.
The quarrying of much of his own stone from remote sites has become an integral part of the creative process as Michel draws on his inherent love of the land and its wildlife for inspiration. He prefers taking advantage of a stone's rough outline and allowing himself to be guided by intuition. Through his work Michel expresses not only the stories and legends of the Iroquois, but feelings which illuminate the extent of his imagination and spirit.
Michel takes pride and finds inspiration in the hopes and ideals of his forefathers, in particular his great-grandfather Louis Kenwetson, his grandfather Arthur Areuroktha and his father Maurice. Michel's artwork explores the culture of his Mohawk heritage through the incorporation of traditional native symbols and motifs. His work reflects a contemporary vision, strongly echoing the historic sense of style of the Mohawk people. Michel signs his pieces with his initials alongside a moose print, and by so doing, is carrying on the use of a Beauvais family mark.
Michel's sculptures are working their way into private collections worldwide as more people become familiar with his deep commitment to his art. His work has been exhibited in Montreal, Portland, Scottsdale, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Dallas, Victoria, Vancouver and Whistler.
Artist’s statement
"In my work I try to reflect, and be guided by a contemporary vision of the imagination, spirit and the historic sense of style of the Kahnawake Mohawk. As I work, the patterns and swirls of the marble guide me in finding the creation."
Michel Beauvais