The Caudan Art Center hosted an exhibition of Maryann Maingard's works from April 27th to 29th. This captivating exhibition immersed visitors into a mysterious and elusive universe, where trees with delicate features emerge from misty landscapes. The Third Dot, a curation platform managed by two art enthusiasts, Alicia Maurel and Laetitia Lor, were the masterminds behind this exhibition.
The artist
Maryann Maingard, the artist, was born in England and has lived in Mauritius for over thirty years. She discovered her passion for painting during high school and met Serge Constantin, a renowned artist in Mauritius, who invited her to join his circle of friends and artists. Together, they explored Mauritius from a fresh perspective.
Mauritius under another light
In her paintings, Maryann Maingard offers an innovative perspective of Mauritius beyond the typical portrayal of turquoise seas and sandy beaches. "Gestual Mark" is a series of semi-abstract paintings that showcase a mysterious and ever-changing Mauritius, characterized by a fusion of dark and colorful tones. As the exhibition's name suggests, Maryann Maingard's paintings are gestural, precise, and delicate simultaneously. She creates landscapes that are in motion, reflecting the fragility of the local nature in a sensitive way.
Abstract art
The exhibition commences with a series of canvases painted in neutral colors, punctuated by touches of yellow, orange, and red. The overall impression is organic, reminiscent of the wild coasts of the island, nature, and abstract concepts specific to the artist, thoughts and emotions that are ephemeral and delicately placed on the linen canvas. The paintings gradually become more evocative and suggestive as the exhibition progresses. Organic forms emerge from the abstraction, and landscapes are depicted, while memories come to life. The colors become more vibrant and intense, contrasting and drawing the visitor out of their meditative state. The colors convey a sense of movement and vitality, with free and spontaneous gestures creating an impression of energy and movement: trees appear out of the mist, flowers blossom, and flamboyant trees blaze. A diverse range of landscapes and objects painted in oil, some recognizable, and others more abstract, piques the visitor's interest.
In summary, "Gestural Mark" is an exhibition that illuminates the richness and depth of Maryann Maingard's art. The paintings on display are a celebration of nature, color, and gesture, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer.
