Jean-Pierre Gauthier

Jean-Pierre Gauthier creates sound environments using ordinary objects, modulated sounds and physical interaction. His art is divided between “systemic and mechanical-hygienic installations” and sound installations. The first group features everyday objects that are subjected to operations, such as contraction, compression, dissolution and disappearance. In other works, he weaves sound and space together through soundscapes, automated instruments and sound animation and various acoustic systems. The resulting installations are physically independent and bear symbolic reference to commercial exploitation and economic cycles. The analog animation movements of these kinetic creations lend his installations a faintly antiquated character despite their obvious technological ingenuity. This publication is the first monograph dedicated to his work. Gauthier was the 2004 winner of the Sobey Art Award, Canada’s pre-eminent prize for young Canadian artists.