Born in Sainte-Monique (Quebec, Canada), Pauline Paquin is the mother of three sons. She is currently living in Ste-Adele (Laurentians) where she carries on relentlessly what she started in 1979. A self-taught painter, she worked as a nurse in the school system. The fascinating world of childhood, with all the imaginary, the spontaneity and the simplicity that goes with it, is at the center of her work.
The rosy-cheeked children playing throughout Pauline Paquin’s work have become well known to Canadian collectors. Using bold colours and rapid brushstrokes, Paquin creates delightful small panels that concentrate on the movements and activities of the children. Their faces are intentionally left indistinct, encouraging the viewer to remember his or her own childhood.
Pauline Paquin has developed a very personal style that has often been described as ‘fresh’ and ‘honest’. Her paintings radiate with the energy and enthusiasm of childhood. Pauline is a figurative artist with an acute sense of observation, an undeniable flair for details and an explosive color palette, carries on her mission and put to life on her canvas those magic moments of childhood. She puts into her painting her sensitivity, a mothering, a feeling of nostalgia and reality, all depending on her moods when she is creating her artwork.
Each painting illustrates a unique moment, a magical moment to stay the least, of the children’s universe, a world in perpetual effervescence similar to an endless whirl. The scenes, either actual or fictitious, are bringing us back to our own childhood. There are no adults or at least just a few in her paintings. That’s what the artist wants. One can imagine that the adults are not very far, watching over the children. The artist puts them in their natural environment, either in an urban or a rural setting. The artistic composition is accessory; it serves as a way to illustrate the place and the moment. They are the most important element. Every piece of work is an expression of liberty and joy for life.
Many products are derived from her original work and are available on the market: limited editions, lithographs, Christmas cards, greeting cards, puzzles, etc. Numerous publications have also displayed her work: school books, business magazines, decoration magazines and television shows.
Pauline Paquin has been represented by Koyman Galleries in Ottawa, Ontario for many years, and continues to be a client favourite.
Pauline Paquin CV (PDF)
