a nomadic dancer...Paul-André Fortier.

Paul-André Fortier is in Montreal for 30 days performing his piece, Solo 30 x 30. 

CONCEPT:  A site-specific 30 minute routine lasting 30 consecutive days.  

WHEN: September 22 - Octobre 21, 2011 (5:15pm - 5:45pm)

WHERE: Espace Georges-Émile-Lapalme, Place des Arts, Montreal, Quebec.

It's truly inspirational to witness the dedication of this talented man while he performs.  At first, I was not sure why he had chosen this particular site, but after reviewing my pictures, I can appreciate the way in which the existing skylight frames the intentionally outlined stage. 

Enjoy the snapshots I took here and there while trying not to miss the performance too much. My favorite captured shot is of M. Fortier's blurry figure above, because it reveals a sense of spiritual bravery. It reminds me of Alberto Giacometti's breathtaking sculptural figure, Striding Man, featured below.

NOTE: Unfortunately, I was was not able to see the performance all 30 days, but managed to make time for 5 performances. 

Photo Credits: I believe this Giacometti piece is titled "Striding Man" (1960) but I stumbled upon this image without info.  If you know where this piece resides please let me know.
All other pictures featured in this post © Viviana de Loera.

Arcade Fire's BIG Merci Beaucoup to Montreal...

Arcade Fire gave a free open-air thank you concert to its Montreal fans last night in the heart of the city, and it was phenomenal. Apparently there were about 100,000 of us present.  I was amazed by the crowd, they were peacefully rocking throughout the entire concert. (Which was a good thing, because the security at this event was useless.  They did't know how to direct the crowd. FYI Evenko!).  But enough ranting, the band left all of us speechless.  
There was no detail left unturned, the sound was crisp, the stage lights & videos were spell-bounding, the band's outfits were gorgeous (just look at Butler's sweater below).  Win Butler is a dashing fellow and Régine Chassagne is simply adorable.  AND, the beach balls some of you experienced at Coachella this year were also brought to Montreal. Sorry, I don't have a picture of the beach balls, it was a hard picture to take from my view. 


The entire band poured their heart out on that stage last night. It was a wonderful au revoir to the summer of 2011.


By the way, if you are as fascinated about those infamous beach balls as I am, check out this video. Amazing collaboration! 
Parties involved: Chris Milk from Radical Media & Moment Factory (Fabulous company from Montreal) and many others.  Click here.


Photo Credits:  Beach Ball photo from Coachella concert borrowed from here. Win Butler "blue" picture shot  by Bernard Brault for LA PRESSE. Régine and Win Butler images shot by Pierre Obendrauf for THE GAZETTE.  All other shots taken by me.

One Day...Rainy Day

Rainy day in Montreal today. . .

Lone Scherfig did it again.  Her latest film, 'One Day' is perfect for a rainy day. (Photos by Giles Keyte).

After watching the movie, I contemplated, hmm...One day, I will be the person (the artist) I promised my 3 year old self I would be.  What is your one day phrase?  We all have one, right? or two.

 . . .

And then there is the video of the song Low Rising by Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova.  It's not a new video, but it's also perfect for a cathartic day.

It's a melancholically sweet day.

The Public, Criticism, Inspiration

I've been meaning to share with you these images from the video installation currently illuminating the Grand Foyer Culturel located inside Montreal's Place des Arts.  I walk by this foyer as often as I can because it puts a smile on my face every time.  When I stumble upon these experiences, I'm reminded of the fact that I live in an incredibly creative city.  How lucky am I?


Created by the Montreal studio: Baillat Cardell & fils in collaboration with artists Capucine Labarthe and Lino
It was featured in FRAME 's online news page last month, click here to read article.

¡Viva México!

Today, the 16th of September, México celebrates 201 years of Independence. . .and with great pride my heart cries out, ¡Viva México!  To celebrate, I share with you my favorite childhood picture.  Here I am, around 3 years old, looking at my best friend, Lorena.  She continues to be an inspirational woman in my life today.  ¡Viva México, Lorena!


Below: Picture taken by a friend, Omar Barcena of the Palacio Nacional located in el Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución), Mexico City.


I love my Mexican flag...absolutely gorgeous!

All about Gaultier...part one

Here are a few pictures from my visits to the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit currently on display in Montreal's Museum of Fine Arts.  I am very grateful that photography was allowed, well, without flash, but my little digital companion did not let me down!

The welcoming "Madonnas" with projected faces are both creepy and captivating.  

'Talking models' are intentionally scattered throughout the different exhibit rooms.  They talk, sing and recite hysterical conversations, all while wearing various couture pieces.

The exhibit highlights a few of Gaultier's notable themes throughout his (still active) career. How does one mind originate all of these styles in a lifetime?. . 
probably with a lot of skilled help. Bravo to those talented seamstresses!! 

All about Gaultier...part two

I tried to take pictures of everything.  I've seen this exhibit three times, and each visit revealed something new. There are simply too many enriching details.