Gesso, is a white paint mixture consisting of a binder mixed with chalk, gypsum, pigment, or any combination of these. It is used in artwork as a preparation for any number of substrates such as wood panels, canvas and sculpture as a base for paint and other materials that are applied over it.

The main idea of this project is to provide a multi-functional urban space with the particular idea to exhibit art in an honorable and respectful way. The project of the white gallery (galerieblanc.com) allowed me to test certain theories. With the Blanc gallery, my best bet was to create an intimate link between people and the art work. This was obtained by creating a hybrid park / art gallery. By transposing museum codes to the outdoor environment of the St Catherine Street: a new and very defined space was born. The use of modern architecture, the color white and the minimalism has created a surprising place, safe to its spectators and strangely functional for the clients needs. Offering a free and accessible space where people can take the time to enjoy the works and live a cultural experience. The most surprising points of this project is the acceptance, pride and adoption of the project by the people of the neighbourhood. Tourists of all avenues are seduced by this urban curiosity. The artists are thrived to collaborate as they appreciate the effort and intentions of the place willing to expose their artworks for an entire year. The interest from the artists translate in the participation of national and international artists of high caliber.

For the Gesso project, the proposal is much more ambitious. The exhibition space is juxtaposed with a green public park, a multifunctional terrace and technological infrastructures. All these amenities allow even greater use for the citizens of the neighbourhoods, as this space becomes a meeting place where we go to lunch, see the exhibits and relax. Such an infrastructure also allows the SDC, the City of Montreal and Odace Event to use these spaces for special events and various temporary installations. At nightfall, the structures and artwork are illuminated to expose art to a broader publique. Unlike a traditional park, it stays welcoming at any time of day and provides a safe space for everyone. Its contemporary architecture is bold and strong, while remaining graceful and timeless. One of the greatest inspirations for this project was the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe. I have always been fascinated by the way Mies blurs the notion of interior and exterior. With Gesso, we feel the spirit of a building, yet its access is completely possible. For me this current location requires some volumetric height to unify the neighbourhood and boost its social fabric. This proposal offers a complete opening towards Mount Royal Street and a transition towards the residential streets. Why such a project? Because everyone will benefits from it. It will attract international tourists, who are not necessarily attracted to the Mont Royal Street. It’s a long term solution. It’s innovations will resonate loudly in its community.