FIERTÉ – 26” x 36” – Acrylic and mixed media on wood
This work celebrates a great man born in 1953 in the Chaudière-Appalaches region, more specifically in the village of Saint-Michel-de-Bellechasse, on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River.
Between the layers of paint, several symbolic elements emerge, tracing the story of his life on personal, family, and professional levels.
First, we discover a photograph taken on the farm, where young Jean-Maurice appears alongside his three sisters: Micheline, Suzanne, and Michelle. Another significant member of the family is also represented: Marie, a cow who became famous for her outstanding presence and received numerous awards over the years.
A few decades later, Jean-Maurice marries and raises four wonderful children: Pierre-Olivier, Marie-Ève, Marc-Antoine, and Jean-Philippe. Their names are mentioned along his neck, intertwined with words evoking success, achievement, and excellence. These values he patiently built over the years through his company specializing in wealth management and financial planning.
You will also notice the letters MM, which represent the number 2000 in Roman numerals. That year marks his meeting with the charming Isabelle. In 2011, they were married in Tuscany and, a few years later, acquired a property in the picturesque village of North Hatley, in the Eastern Townships. It was there, in fact, that I had the pleasure of meeting this inspiring couple. I challenge you to spot the elements referencing their North Hatley “cottage,” their boat, as well as a vintage map of Lake Massawippi.
A quote, written in French appears prominently across our subject’s forehead:
“Loving is giving freely without keeping score.”
Over the years, Jean-Maurice has generously given his time, attention, and energy, never keeping track of what he was owed. It is precisely this quality that I find deeply beautiful in him.
The SUPERMAN logo is also present. Through his excellence in many areas, his professional achievements, and his role as a father, mentor, and role model, he has inspired more than one person. That is why I consider this man a true superhero.
I titled this work FIERTÉ (pride in English).
May it make you smile each time your eyes rest upon it, and may it inspire you to offer the best version of yourself in everything you undertake. Be proud of your accomplishments… and if ever you doubt, let yourself be inspired by exceptional individuals like Jean-Maurice Vézina.
Yours in colours,
SAMSON