The Landscapes of Matane

In his short yet productive career (1983–1990), Robert Pelletier realized several projects. Compiled by his partner Diane Giguère, and friends Michel Campeau and Bertrand Carrière following his death, this work presents photographs Pelletier created during a visit to Matane, Quebec. Along with views of Giguère's studio and exterior shots of Matane, there is also a self-portrait, an unusual subject in his work. The reason he took these photographs is unknown; he never explained the significance of the ice floes and snowy landscape, or the studio interior, or the objects left by fishermen. But the images testify to the artist's attentiveness to his surroundings and his exploration of landscape. With this compilation, the artist's friends pay homage to Pelletier's vigour, reflected in the harsh character of the landscape, and his dedication to his craft revealed in his self portrait and references to art and art making.