Arbre from the collection of Temiskaming Art Gallery

In 1969, from scientific experiments with seaweeds made by a Laval University doctor in marine biology, I got the idea to develop the artistic side by producing pictures with them. In spite of the great fragility of the seaweed, I succeeded in mounting them, preserving their texture and natural colours.

About the artist

Gertrude Cote-Malenfant

Gertrude Cote-Malenfant became interested in using seaweeds as an art medium in 1969 after observing scientific experiments using the material. Despite its fragility, she succeeded in mounting seaweed, preserving its texture and natural colours. This work attracted a great deal of interest in the 1970’s both in Canada and in France. Gertrude is a native of Rimouski, Quebec. Her work is known all over Canada, France, Belgium, Switzerland and the US.

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Gertrude Côté-Malenfant a développé un intérêt pour les algues marines comme matériau pictural en 1969 à la suite d’observations tirées d’expériences scientifiques faites sur cette matière. Malgré la fragilité des algues, elle a réussi à les entoiler en sauvegardant leur texture et leur couleur naturelle. Cette œuvre a suscité beaucoup d’intérêt dans les années 1970 aussi bien au Canada qu’en France. Gertrude est native de Rimouski, Québec.