Over the years, the city of Sherbrooke has been the focus of many artistic projects. Indeed, there is no shortage of studies, research of all kinds, books on the Queen of the Eastern Townships.
However, here is an unusual project: an exhibition of black and white photos of Sherbrooke coupled with citizen reflections on the theme determined by the initiator, hope. The project differs from all the others already presented since it will call upon the collaboration of various personalities of the City. This complicity is the main objective of the ideator of this project, Marcel Morin. It is not enough, as far as he is concerned, to present his point of view through his camera, but to collect the point of view of fifty Sherbrooke residents from different spheres of the environment (politics, education, culture , business, sports, etc.). Attaching words to photos is what he deeply desires.
The required theme: hope
These accomplices were called upon to give their thoughts on "hope" on this imposed theme by allowing themselves to be inspired by some fifty large format black and white photos which were offered to them as lines of thought. What buried dreams will these photos awaken? There is no doubt that old images (happy or dark) will ask to rise to the surface at the sight of these oversized pictorial works... What did these frequented or abandoned public places evoke in the accomplices? The marriage of some, the convocation of the degrees of another? The premature departure of a child, a well-guarded hiding place, an uncovered secret?
According to Marcel Morin, the eye of the camera does not capture everything: it directs the gaze toward an often unsuspected direction, offers a singular angle of observation, and suggests rather than imposes. Here and there, old stones, a neighbourhood school, the turbulent waters of the Magog, signs that have stood the test of time, etc. Every memory contains hope; every day too. All the space of this project is entirely devoted to the game of interpretation...
Presentation of the project manager
Marcel Morin joined Serge Lavigne as project manager. The latter's mission will be to reach fifty citizens of Sherbrooke who will agree to get involved in this project by delivering a personal reflection on the theme of hope. In charge of canvassing, he will explain the primary motivation of the ideator and will compile the texts.
Serge Lavigne is a retired teacher. Specialized in information technologies, he is also a photographer, has participated in numerous exhibitions (solo and group) in the region.
For me, hope is...
Your thoughts are written in the book “Sherbrooke black and white - hope”