Hélène Desjardins and Louka Labelle often crossed paths as they participated in various craft fairs over time. They shared a love of art and a sunny personality, and soon they became friends. As she contemplated showing her art for an exhibition, Desjardins decided to invite 17-year-old Labelle to join her in the experience. Arbor Gallery welcomes them for their exhibition aptly titled Dialogues | une expérience artistique intergénérationnelle.

A seasoned artist, Desjardins fell in love with watercolour upon meeting renowned watercolourist Jean-Yves Guindon, more than thirty-five years ago. She attended several training courses and workshops with him, fine tuning her art and reinforcing her passion for watercolour. “I like to feel the emotional links between music and watercolour. It brings me to a place of peace and tranquility.” Flowers and animals are her favorite choices. She has created a complete series of watercolors of the flowers of the month, particularly prized to mark the birthdays of people close to our hearts, which are included in her exhibition.

She will also share part of her collection of graphite works on paper, tinged with her particular sensibility. Alongside her watercolour practice, Desjardins enjoys creating decorative objects, presenting in May a series of hand-painted bottles that have been a hit at several craft shows.

High school student Louka Labelle has been passionate about painting and drawing since he was a child. He created his first canvases at the age of 6, and continues to explore different styles and techniques to give his art a touch of magic.

It is an innovative project by the Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l’Est ontarien, Les Petits Entrepreneurs du CSDCEO, which invited youths to start their own businesses, that prompted him to share his talent and creations with the community. Under the artist name Loulikins, he has sold several hundred pieces at various events and his paintings were exhibited at the Centre culturel Le Chenail in Hawkesbury during their Chocolat Show.

The exhibition runs from May 2 to May 26. A vernissage will be held at Arbor Gallery on Saturday, May 4, between 1pm and 3pm.