“My living in the country for the past few years has made me more involved with the landscape and nature scenes that I encounter on my walks. Reflections in the water or a close-up where the light and shadows build the composition allow me to paint in an abstract way so that the colours are making the painting. Colour in is its own mystery give sensations and express emotions just like music. I understand why Riopelle did not see any difference between figurative and abstract painting.
Whether I am painting a street scene or a landscape, my search is the same and it has brought me further in the study of harmony and colour. I am using saturated pastel colours with lower contrasts so that the light is coming from the colour itself. The contemplative aspect of those nature scenes, a fluid drawing with arabesques and the design of some decorative leaves give an oriental touch to my impressionist style. There is no coincidence in this evolution. My art without any didactic intention simply reflects my soul and my quest.” – Richard Montpetit
Presently living in Eastman, Quebec.
Mainly self-taught with some guidance from artist/father Rolland Montpetit.
Has traveled extensively in Europe, Africa, Mexico, the Caribbean and across Canada for painting subjects.
1990, '92, '94, '96, '98, 2000, '02, '04, '06, '08, '11, '16, '18, '20, 2022 - Roberts Gallery
1988, '91, '93, '95, '97, '99, 2002, '04, '06, '09, '10, 2011 - Galerie Walter Klinkhoff, Montreal
1988 - Galerie d'Art Vincent, Ottawa
1987 - Marc Aurele Fortin Museum - retrospective show
1984 - Galerie Bigue Osler, Toronto
1984 - Galerie Alexandre, Montreal
1982, '84 - Galerie Michel Bigue, Montreal
1980, '81 - Galerie Colbert, Montreal
Montpetit has participated in numerous group shows in Quebec and Ontario.
2008 - present, Art Toronto, Roberts Gallery, Toronto
1989 - present, Annual Artists Choice Exhibition, Roberts Gallery, Toronto
Confederation Life Insurance Co.
Nova Corporation
City of Sherbrooke
Power Corporation
Nortel networks
PAL Insurance Company
IBM Canada
Bombardier
Merchantile Bank
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Domtar
Bank of Montreal
Imperial Bank of Commerce
Videotron
Provigo
Galerie Walter Klinkhoff, Montreal
Roberts Gallery, Toronto
Winchester Galleries, Victoria
Masters Gallery, Calgary
Galerie L'Harmattan, Baie St-Paul