In the summer of 2022, Chantal Harvey meets a couple of lichenologists from Duke University. With them, she goes out to collect specimens in the territory and has the privilege of observing different varieties of lichen under the microscope. For her, this observation opened the door to a whole new world. Inspired by the science and passion of these two researchers, she continues her artistic research.
Suite Lichen deploys a colossal assemblage of lichen engravings on the gallery walls, modulating their compositions in harmony with the place and space they occupy, while evoking their blossoming in nature. Through cutting and superimposition, this work evokes the richness of natural textures. A series of slightly raised matrices on the floor will echo these murals.
This work is accompanied by real lichens that are introduced to embossed and tinted papers recalling different textures of the natural environment where they are observed. They will form a set of miniature pieces, a sampling evoking the methodical research work of lichenologists, but also allowing us to get closer to nature as it is.