The Montreal Art Center is holding an exhibition during the month of June 2024, during which local emerging artists are highlighted. Among these artists, Dieujuste Marc Alexandre, a young Haitian painter and graffiti artist, attracted attention during the opening held on June 8, 2024 in this space dedicated to art and culture.
The Montreal Art Center recently opened its doors to a unique exhibition highlighting the vibrant works of emerging artists. Among them, Dieujuste Marc Alexandre, also known under the pseudonym DMA_Graff, a Haitian artist whose creations captivate with their vibrant colors and deep stories inspired by Haitian and African culture.
“My art is full of stories expressed by a host of colors tinged by Haitian culture and that of our African ancestors,” the emerging artist tells us straight away when the first question is asked about the expression behind his works.
Indeed, each painting is a celebration of this rich cultural duality, merging the visual traditions of both heritages to create a unique visual and emotional experience.
The artist cites the history of the black race and the cultural richness of Haiti as his main sources of inspiration.
“My main artistic influence comes from the history of the black race and our rich culture, where this is reflected in my creation,” he specifies about his muse.
This immersion in his own cultural heritage led him to use art as a means of connection and dialogue with the past, while speaking to the present.
“I have always had an appreciation for the history of Haiti. As I grew up, I began to know a little more about black history and there, I lent my brushes to this rich culture,” adds the artist.
Her works are visual mosaics that tell stories of resilience, beauty and cultural continuity.
Furthermore, the young graffiti artist says he is amazed by the reaction received from the public to the admiration of his works plastered in a corridor of the center.
“The interaction with the public always leaves me amazed because I often receive a positive reaction,” he confides.
For this stage of his career, the artist adopts an approach centered on the present. “I don’t predict the future, so I work for the present moment. I am in the process of building a promising career that will bring future success,” he assures. This philosophy of life is reflected in his work, where each brushstroke is a celebration of the present moment.
Graffiti or painting?
If DMA_Graff became known in 2019 during the 4th edition of the Graffiti Festival organized by Jean Widler Pierresaint as a graffiti artist, it turns out that today the art enthusiast amazes with his paintings exhibited at the Center d’ Montreal art. He admits that he does not choose a medium beforehand between painting and graffiti for his works, he leaves this choice to his artistic instinct.
“Graffiti and painting are two art forms that I am fascinated by. That said, I am not limiting myself to one to the detriment of the other. As to when it will be graffiti or painting, I let my artistic side choose for itself,” explains the artist. This artistic flexibility allows him to navigate between different mediums without constraint, thus enriching his creative expression.
The artist wishes to inspire and encourage his audience through his work. “My message to you is to believe in your dreams and take care of your passions.” This message of perseverance and passion resonates deeply in each piece on display.
About the Opening
The opening of this collective exhibition was held on June 8, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Montreal Art Center and Museum. This event aimed to provide a platform for up-and-coming artists to share their unique perspectives and creativity with the community.
About the Montreal Art Center
The Montreal Art Center, located in Griffintown, is a non-profit community center. Since 2010, it has welcomed hundreds of member artists, working in over 50 open and private studios. The Center’s mission is to support, assist and promote local visual and performance artists, creating a strong collaborative community. This iconic venue is dedicated to supporting artists on their journey, providing a space for creativity and continued growth.
