Introduction
A master of Quebec art
Both educated and fascinated by nature, Ozias Leduc is an artist who draws his inspiration from loved ones, the environment and his spiritual life.
He masters equally well easel painting, wall painting and drawing, and expresses himself through portraits, landscapes, religious subjects, still lifes, genre scenes and historical paintings.
Following a trip to Europe in 1897, Leduc starts integrating into his work modern ideas and techniques, notably inspired by symbolism. An artistic movement of 19th century France, symbolism is imbued with spirituality, imagination and dreams. This leaves a lasting impression on the young artist.
Leduc's art seeks to carry a message. He gives his characters, landscapes and objects a symbolic and metaphorical meaning, leading the viewer to reflect. His work often carries multiple connotations.
Leduc attaches great importance to the choice of colors, composition and techniques, sometimes even more than to the subject itself. These priorities help define Leduc as a decidedly modern painter.
Enigmatic art
This landscape entitled End of day (1913) is one of Leduc's most enigmatic paintings. Of small size, it shows a rocky cliff that gradually darkens towards the bottom. Symbolist in character, likeness to reality becomes secondary.