Overview
Taking full possession of PHI’s 451 Saint-Jean Street building, Unity in Darkness is Mathieu's most comprehensive exhibition to date. In addition to the presentation of recent paintings, drawings and ceramics, this exhibition features a brand new sculptural and video installation as well as works that expand his multidisciplinary practice to include a mosaic, and his most recent foray into the exploration of scents with a large-scale, immersive olfactory installation.
The title of the exhibition is taken from his latest video work, situated within the heart of the building. Filmed in a single shot, a flaming match flares and almost burns out before being ignited by another match, which then passes its flame to another match, and so on, again and again. This perpetual dance becomes a gesture of solidarity and determination towards our common survival in the face of real danger. The installation also consists of a multitude of spherical ceramic works which have become a signature element of Mathieu’s artistic vocabulary. Placed throughout the space, these works gaze at us like hundreds of eyes that simultaneously witness our vulnerability while also serving as talismans of protection. Made together with the many hands of the PHI team, this collaborative process underscores the notion of teamwork and community. The imagery of the flame along with the sculptural installation serve as a metaphor for the power of individual action that can nurture a universal consciousness to keep hope and resistance alive, in order to confront the harsh reality of our many global challenges.
Unity in Darkness invites the public on an introspective journey that may elevate mindfulness and care for ourselves and each other. Undulating both conceptually and energetically, Unity in Darkness asks us to let go in order to connect.
