Articles Tagged ‘La Petite Mort’

ARTFUL BLOGGER: One week only! La Petite Mort Gallery showcases Olivia Johnston — resurrecting forgotten women from the Bible

Some names are familiar, Eve being one. But others are less known and, centuries later, still influence the way women are viewed and treated in Christian countries.

Lot's Daughters (Clare, Emma). Photo by Olivia Johnston

Eve, Jael, Tamar, and Susannah are all women found in Old Testament Bible stories. Eve, of course, is the world’s original temptress, supposedly responsible for all men’s sins and for all the pain women must bear in childbirth. Not exactly a role model. The other women were raped, abused, maligned, and treated like chattel.

Ottawa photographer Olivia Johnston has created a body of work, titled Fallen, in which contemporary women pose as these various Biblical characters. The work will be exhibited at La Petite Mort Gallery from April 26 to May 2. The vernissage is April 26 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

I received, online, an advance peek at some of the portraits. They are haunting and powerful. But one can expect nothing less from Johnston, a Carleton University art history student who is fast becoming one of Ottawa’s more intriguing photo-artists. The following is a partial transcript of an email interview with Johnston:

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  |  April 24, 2013 at 10:30 am

ARTFUL BLOGGER: Female figures sprout from the landscape in Meaghan Haughian’s new show at La Petite Mort Gallery

Meaghan Haughian, Beyond Hibernation. Mixed media & collage on paper, 15 x 11 inches, 2013.

We are all products of our landscape. Canadians have more in common with such fellow northerners as Swedes and Finns than we do with more southerly Egyptians and Mexicans.

Ottawa artist Meaghan Haughian has taken that truism to heart. The result is a new body of work, Winter Garden, on view at La Petite Mort Gallery until March 31.

Haughian is a collage artist who has taken old photographs, including some of her grandmother, and painted around them to produce a series of dreamy, haunted images in which female figures literally seem to sprout from the landscape. The figures and the landscape are inseparable.

In this recent interview, Haughian discusses her work.

What inspired this particular body of work?
A family friend died of cancer last spring, which caused me to revisit cemeteries. I had photographed a few European cemeteries almost 10 years ago (some of these are exhibited in Winter Garden). These photos have existed in my studio for several years but I’ve never been able to show them. I visited Beechwood Cemetery last summer with my camera. This resulted in dozens of photographs of fake flowers from the graves of individuals. I used these photos to create a big garden of nearly 60 framed flowers for an installation at Blink Gallery last August called Practice Saying Goodbye. I wanted to capture colour and beauty during a time of sadness, and to create a quiet, soothing space for reflection. So a number of things in the past year have led me to explore gardens and growth/decay. I realize that there is much sadness in my work… but I seek to express the beauty in that sadness, and within beauty there is hope.

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  |  March 4, 2013 at 2:10 pm

WEEKENDER: East of Berlin, maple sugar, films from Latin America, and four more ways to enjoy the first weekend of spring

EAST OF BERLIN
This tangled love story brings together two young people with violent histories. East of Berlin sees the son of a Nazi doctor (Simon Bradshaw) fall in love with the daughter of an Auschwitz prisoner (Catherine Boutin), a situation that forces these characters to deal with their difficult pasts. Directed by Joel Beddows, written by Ottawa playwright Hannah Moscovitch, and nominated for the Governor General’s award, East of Berlin is a challenging, but also funny, play. Wednesday, March 21 to Sunday, April 8. Irving Greenberg Theatre, 1233 Wellington St. West. www.gctc.ca

MAPLE SUGAR FESTIVAL
Come to the Maple Sugar Festival and celebrate the arrival of spring the way Canadians always have. The Festival features syrup-inspired meals and activities like a maple soup cook-off and walks throughout the maple forest. The warm weather might have slowed the sap flow, but it’s all the more reason to come and get outdoors. Price varies by event, see website for details. Sunday, March 25 to Sunday, April 1. 300 av. Des Peres-Blancs. http://www.museoparc.ca

OTTAWA HOME AND GARDEN SHOW
This weekend the Ottawa Home and Garden Show opens its exhibition of decorations, trends, and ideas. With over 300 exhibitors, the Home and Garden Show has displays ranging from no-maintenance gardens to an entire ultra-modern model home to be unveiled at the show. $12, $10 seniors and youth, children under 12 free. Thursday, March 22 to March 25. 4899 Uplands Dr. www.ottawahomeshow.com

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  |  March 21, 2012 at 12:57 pm

THE WEEKENDER: Vagina Monologues, Ikebana, Richard Scarry, and five more ways to enjoy the final days of February

VAGINA MONOLOGUES
Poignant and humourous, the Vagina Monologues is based on playwright Eve Ensler’s interviews with over 200 women. The piece celebrates women’s sexuality and strength, and spurred the global action campaign, V-Day, to end violence against women. This year’s Ottawa community production is hosted by the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC) and the Minwaashin Lodge Aboriginal Women’s Support Centre. Tickets are $20 in advance at Venus Envy (320 Lisgar St.), Mother Tongue Books (1067 Bank St.) or $25 at the door. Sponsor tickets are available for $100. Friday, Feb. 24 and Saturday, Feb. 25. 8 p.m. Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave. www.thevaginamonologuesottawa2012.wordpress.com

 

 

Lyle Richardson uses bold water colours in Drawings of Everyday Life. He teams up with photographer Tony Fouhse for a show at La Petite Mort on Friday night.

TONY FOUHSE AND LYLE RICHARDSON
AT LA PETITE MORT (FREE!)
Appreciate daily struggles from the different perspectives of two old friends in their combined art show. Lyle Richardson uses bold water colours in “Drawings of Everyday Life,” while Tony Fouhse photographs the recovery of Stephanie, a heroin addict, in “Live Through This.” The two artists are friends with a long history in Ottawa. Meet them on Friday, Feb. 24 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Their works are on display for the following 24 hours as part of the gallery’s One Night Stand series. La Petite Mort Gallery, 306 Cumberland St. www.lapetitemortgallery.com

ELABORHYTHM
This unique class uses freestyle dance and percussion to explore rhythm. A playful path to discovery, awakening, and transformation — no dance or music experience required! The event is held at Mouvement, a yoga and dance studio that offers a friendly, comfortable, and intimate atmosphere. Friday, Feb. 24. 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. $20, $17 students, seniors, and unemployed. Pre-registration required. Mouvement, 69 Eddy St., Gatineau. www.elaborhythm.com

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  |  February 22, 2012 at 11:04 am

EXHIBITION LAUNCH: Belgium’s Gert Jochems reveals the banality of sex at La Petite Mort Gallery

Photo by Gert Jochems. By Paul Gessell

Widespread contemporary pornography has conditioned us to think that people having sex possess stereotypically perfect bodies, whether those bodies are enjoying the prim heterosexual missionary position or something far more elaborate with ropes, harnesses, and an audience.

Beer bellies, sagging breasts, and wrinkled faces just don’t seem to exist in the world of pornography, except to pleasure the odd connoisseur with a fetish for such physical characteristics.

In truth, people who do not have perfect bodies and (surprise, surprise) may look remarkably like your neighbours or even your aging parents, do indulge in all categories of the sexual arts. For proof, visit La Petite Mort Gallery and view an exhibition of photographs by Belgium’s Gert Jochems.

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  |  January 5, 2012 at 2:37 pm

THE WEEKENDER: Ornaments launch, Crazzy Dave, Sneezy Waters, plus Capital Slam and more

ORNAMENTS ALBUM LAUNCH
This local rock n’ roll trio, which features hard-hitting drums and loud guitar riffs alongside powerful vocals, launches its first full-length album, Blood Vessels. It’s a night of local listens, as fellow Ottawa artists The Ticket, Glenn Nuotio and The Superlatives hit the stage before the main men of Ornaments. Don’t forget to check out the new tunes, now available on the band website (in hard copy on Nov. 22). Nov. 19, 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance at Vertigo Records (193 Rideau st.), Compact Music (190 Bank st. or 785 ½ Bank st.), or at the Elmdale. $12 at the door. Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington st. W. www.ornamentsband.com

Crazzy Dave. Photo by Jean Boulay.

CRAZZY DAVE AT LA PETITE MORT

Not your typical poet and artist, Crazzy Dave resides on the streets of Ottawa, writing his words on cardboard boxes and creating works of art with stray objects. But don’t let the nickname fool you. Despite his homelessness he keeps his creativity alive by showing passersby his skill and way with words. A published author, Crazzy Dave’s words can be found in Mindlessly Adrift/My Streets, My Ottawa, a collaboration with Ottawa photographer Jean Boulay. Meet the artist and see his work in a One Night Stand at LPM. Nov. 18, 7 p.m – 10 p.m. $2 creativity fee. 306 Cumberland St. www.lapetitemortgallery.com

CAPITAL SLAM FEATURING BRANDON WINT
Capital Slam, the second longest running slam series in Canada, brings National Slam Champions Brandon Wint to the stage. Listen to experienced slammers and even gather the courage to stand up and do your own thing. Also on the line-up: Loh El and Rusty Priske. Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m. $8, free for performers. Mercury Lounge, 56 Byward Market. www.capitalslam.com

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  |  November 16, 2011 at 10:26 am

ARTFUL BLOGGER: From Russia With Lust at La Petite Mort

McCabe Hand Stand by Slava Mogutin. From 'Lost Boys', 2003, archival c-print, 16 x 20 inches, edition 2/5

By Paul Gessell

The Siberian-born Slava Mogutin was exiled from Russia in 1995 because of writings that supposedly incited “malicious hooliganism,” sexual perversion, and a host of other calamities.

He was only 21 at the time. Surely, his best years were ahead.

Mogutin relocated to New York City and soon became the toast of the demi-monde with his raw, uninhibited photographic portraits of young males on the fringe and on the make: Punks, skinheads, and assorted sexual outlaws. The urban, underground aesthetic of these images speaks of obsession, danger, and forbidden sex.

Naturally, that all makes Mogutin a fine fit with Ottawa’s La Petite Mort Gallery, where there is never any art too outrageous to exhibit. Mogutin and his artistic partner Brian Kenny will have an exhibition there from Sept. 2 to Oct. 2 called Interpenetration.

In the following interview, Mogutin discusses censorship, his subjects, and the line between pornography and art.

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  |  August 29, 2011 at 11:40 am

ARTFUL BLOGGER: Subtle bathroom humour

By Paul Gessell

Gulliver 2 by Zachari Logan.

French artist Marcel Duchamp revolutionized the artworld in 1917 by signing a white men’s urinal, naming it Fountain and declaring it a work of art.

So revolutionary was Duchamp and his theories about “ready-made” art that, in 2004, a poll of 500 art experts named Fountain the most influential modern art work of all time.

With those thoughts in mind, visit the latest exhibition at La Petite Mort, the dare-to-be-different gallery in the ByWard Market. The multi-media, multi-artist show Golden is all about pee. Yes, you read that right. This show is all about pee. Duchamp would approve.

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  |  July 4, 2011 at 11:30 am

THE WEEKENDER (April 29 – May 1): An eclectic weekend of blues, veggies, and roller derby madness

WIDE MOUTH MASON
Got rainy-week angst? Canadian blues-rock standby Wide Mouth Mason is here to help. Since 1995 these guys have been putting out solid albums — they have veered into jazz and world music, but they’ve always offered a great live performance — and in 2010, the band released their first album in five years. They’re touring with The Stanfields (described as “the epitome of pub culture” and “The Clash meets Steve Earle”) as part of Prairie Scene. Saturday, April 30. 8 p.m. $15. Maverick’s. 221 Rideau St., 613-562-3941.

ROLLER DERBY MADNESS
Ottawa’s newest roller derby league, the Capital City Derby Dolls, kicks off its 2011 season with a bout against the Kingston Limestone Crushers. Sounds a little violent, non? Dolly Rogers captain Bella Lewkowicz (aka Delicate Plow’her) was quoted in a press release as saying that the local girls were more than prepared for the bout. Saturday, April 30. Doors open at 7 p.m.; bout at 7:30 p.m. $12 (kids $6). Jack Charron Arena, 10 McKitrick Dr. (Kanata), www.capitalcityderbydolls.wordpress.com

HIT N RUN III (FREE!)
Guy Berube and his crew are bringing back their popular Hit N Run group show. Throwing open the doors to his Lowertown gallery, Berube will be showing all manner of art, all mediums, all styles. The one-night event will also offer tunes, refreshments, and lots and lots of art. Plus, because the artists have to be in attendance to participate, it’s bound to be a happening night full of interesting people. And you never know, you might just find a piece of art you simply must have. Friday, April 29. 7-10 p.m. La Petite Mort Gallery, 306 Cumberland St. www.lapetitemortgallery.com

VEG FEST (FREE!)
The first asparagus and garlic scapes should be peeking through any day now. So seems like a good time for Veg Fest. Organized by the National Capital Vegetarian Association and sponsored by The Table Vegetarian Restaurant, Veg Fest bills itself as the veg lifestyle event of the year. Expect lots of food (as well as guest speakers and a silent auction). Star billing this year goes to the great NCVA Cupcake Challenge, where Ottawa’s vegan cupcake champion will be crowned. Sunday, May 1. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave. www.ncva.ca. And while we’re on the topic of veggies, don’t forget that this Sunday marks the opening of the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market. Two veggie events within blocks of one another.

ANY ONE OF US: WORDS FROM PRISON
From Eve Ensler, the same playwright that brought the world The Vagina Monologues, comes a new series of monologues about women in prison, the circumstances that led them there, and their re-adjustment into society. A fundraiser for the Elizabeth Fry Society (a local organization that assists women and female youth who are, or may be, at risk of coming into conflict with the law), the event promises pain, drama, and awareness — as well as another side of the ‘tough on crime’ debate. April 29. 8 p.m. $15. Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave. www.jh-5.com

THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S SHOW
As anyone who works with, lives with, or is a woman knows we’re mighty good multi-taskers. This makes The National Women’s Show a no-brainer: get a gaggle of your favourite gal pals together, and make an excursion of it. Everyone may have their own missions, but with over 250 exhibits on everything from food and wine to wellness and beauty, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Highlights include a talk with Olympic silver medalist Elizabeth Manley, a fashion show featuring looks from Shepherd’s, and a chat with Biggest Loser contestant Arthur Wornum (BL fans: check out this People article in which Wornum dishes on the behind-the-scenes action). April 30 – May 1. $12. www.nationalwomenshow.com/ottawa

  |  April 27, 2011 at 12:00 pm

THE WEEKENDER: Vintage frocks, fine photos, aboriginal abstracts, and three more way-too-cool things to check out this weekend

ECO-JEST-US
From blue bin ballads to environmentally-inspired art, this variety show celebrates Earth Day with new energy and wit. Bringing together spoken word artists, musicians, poets, and actors, all of whom bring a concern for the earth to their work, this event aims to enlighten — and entertain. Highlights include a keynote address by David Chernushenko, performances by musician Glenn Nuotio, and poetry readings by Pearl Pirie. Saturday, April 9. 2 p.m. youth show; 7 p.m. variety show and art exhibit. $10, students $5. Pay what you can also available. Arts Court Theatre, 2 Daly Ave. www.personare-bearami.com

ROB FRIDAY: POINTED CREATURES AND A MAN IN ALL DIRECTIONS (FREE!)
Self-taught First Nations artist, and award-winning poet, Rob Friday’s paintings meld forms from the natural world with the energy and patterns of urban life. The work — considered “aboriginal abstract” — begins as a line drawing and eventually incorporates a four colour palette that is both comfortingly nostalgic and tastefully modern. The artist is a fixture on the local arts scene, so the vernissage should be a hopping good time. Vernissage Friday, April 8. 8 p.m. Wurm Gallery, 319 Lisgar St. www.invisiblecinema.ca

RÉMI THÉRIAULT: MEMORIES FOR THE ROAD (FREE!)
Anyone who has ever been lulled into dreamland by the moving landscape outside a war window will appreciate the evocative images in this one night exhibit. Frequent Ottawa Magazine contributor Rémi Thériault (you can see his work for the mag here and here) recalls past trips with the fam, and considers how foreign lands can feel familiar. Friday, April 8. La Petite Mort Gallery, 306 Cumberland St. www.lapetitemortgallery.com

TARA HOLLOWAY: ACOUSTIC WAVES
Canadian singer-songwriter Tara Holloway takes to the stage at the Great Canadian Theatre Company as part of the Acoustic Waves folk concert series. The concert forms part of a day-long celebration at GCTC known as “Street Lights.” The day raises funds for the Youth Services Bureau (and promotes the GCTC’s latest play, The Middle Place, created from interviews done at a youth shelter). Sunday, April 10. Doors open at 11 a.m., the play begins at 2 p.m., and the Tara Holloway concert is at 8 p.m. Check the web for a full lineup of events. $18 (concert). 1227 Wellington St. W.,  613-236-5192, www.gctc.ca

VICTOIRE VINTAGE DRESS SALE (FREE!)
Victoire boutique’s bi-annual vintage sale has become a staple for the fashion lovers of Ottawa, with its collection of dresses from the 1950s and 1960s — think Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and  Mia Farrow. Preview night for the dresses only, Friday, April 8, 6 p.m.-8 p.m., giving ladies a chance to skip the line-up on Saturday and reserve a dress before the super-busy Saturday sale. Main sale: Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 246 Dalhousie St., 613-321-1590. www.victoireboutique.com

SLUTWALK OTTAWA
Lusty ladies and gentlemen of the country are reclaiming the ‘s’ word. A recent slip-of-the-tongue by one of Toronto’s finest has forced the issue of victim-blaming into the light. The premise of Slutwalk is that a person’s sexual history or attire is not a justification for violence or harassment. Meet fellow sluts and slut-lovers at the Women’s Monument in Minto Park to begin marching for more convictions and harsher punishments for perpetrators of sexual attacks. Wear as much or as little as you like, but do bring your umbrella — rain is in the forecast. Sunday, April 10. 1:30 p.m.  Minto Park at Elgin St. and Gilmour St. For more info contact slutwalkottawa@gmail.com

 

  |  April 6, 2011 at 1:00 pm

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