Meet the 17-Year-Old Quebec Painter Taking Her Work International
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Loading... - Ahmad Salah
- 31 Dec 2024
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At just 17 years old, Mégane Fortin is making waves in the art world, showcasing her vibrant abstract paintings that defy traditional norms. Hailing from Stoneham, Quebec, Fortin has spent the last decade painting outside the lines, both literally and figuratively.
As a child, Fortin felt constrained by the conventional rules of painting. "I didn't like that we have rules … All people did the same thing," she chuckled, reflecting on her early experiences in art classes. Her journey took a transformative turn when her mother enrolled her in an abstract painting course at the age of seven. "It's liberating … Art is like therapy," she said, recalling how that course ignited her passion for creativity. By the age of nine, she had already presented her first collection, and since then, her work has sold for thousands of dollars across Quebec, Canada, and even internationally.
Fortin's artistic journey has led her to showcase her work in prominent cities like New York and Los Angeles. Most recently, she received an invitation to participate in Spectrum Miami, an event that coincides with the renowned Art Basel festival. Spectrum Miami features around 190 exhibitors, but it receives close to 700 applications, making it a highly competitive platform for artists. Eric Smith, the owner of Spectrum Miami, noted that many artists can make a significant portion of their annual income from exhibiting at the event, with sales ranging from $100,000 to $400,000.
What sets Spectrum apart is its focus on artists rather than just collectors or gallery dealers. At the event, 15 selected artists, including Fortin, have the unique opportunity to paint live in front of an audience and discuss their creative processes. This interactive element allows artists to connect with viewers on a deeper level.
Fortin's mother, Jessie Tremblay, has been a steadfast supporter of her daughter's artistic endeavors. She recognized Mégane's talent as early as kindergarten, noting, "Even at the age of five, she really had to create every day." Tremblay and Fortin's father have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, coordinating logistics and shipping for her artwork. "It's a real privilege," Tremblay said, expressing her pride in her daughter's achievements.
Fortin's artistic process is as unique as her style. She often paints with her hands, preferring to feel a direct connection with her work. "Some people say that I'm an atypical artist," she remarked, holding up a pair of jeans splattered with dried paint. "I don't want to wash all my knives and my brush, so I always put them on my clothes."
Looking ahead, Fortin has her sights set on Europe, aspiring to become a resident artist abroad. She also hopes to return to Miami art week for years to come, viewing it as a platform to establish her credibility in the art world, despite her young age. "It will prove my credibility even if I'm younger than other artists," she said, embodying the determination and passion that have already set her apart in the competitive art landscape.
As Mégane Fortin continues to break boundaries and redefine what it means to be a young artist, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring creatives everywhere. With her talent and ambition, the future looks bright for this remarkable young painter.
