ABOUT

RACHEL MONNIER, VISUAL ARTIST BEHIND RAOUL & SIMONE

It is in Percé, Gaspésie, where inspiration emanates from the smallest grain of sand to the largest rock faces, from the tiniest dewdrop to the vastness of the sea, that I established my workshop. A creative laboratory where I experiment and conceptualize ideas, reflecting the emotions that this magnificent nature stirs in me.

My approach consists of exploring the coastline and mountains, collecting samples of wildflowers and seaweed. Through the changing seasons, I try to perceive the uniqueness of species by focusing on budding, blooming, but also wilting, drying, or atrophies caused by various unfavorable conditions.

I thus seek to capture what illuminates the essence of the natural and the beauty of imperfection.In my workshop, I capture each subject from multiple angles using scanners that I have modified to achieve my goals. I subject them to various experiments such as soaking in salt water, drying, or depigmentation. These processes, which can sometimes last more than a year, help me alter the character of the plants and capture the evolution of their appearance. I then return to nature what it has lent me by placing it back in the forest or sea.

Over the past few years, I have developed an extensive digital repertoire of more than 5,000 flowers and seaweed that serve as a foundation for creating immersive artworks. My works are created from scans to which I add my interventions. Thus, depending on the subject, I proceed in progressive layers, redrawing the light, and sometimes even complete parts of the works. By manipulating light and shadow, I allow colors to be infused with emotions and express themselves in a photo-realistic ensemble bordering on Caravaggio-like darkness.

Rachel - Creator and founder of Raoul & Simone