Des Oiseaux – Jean Viens

Jean VIENS  (1929-2012) – Huile sur toile signée et mesurant 30×30 pouces

In the 1940s,  a  seventeen year old Viens began his studies at École des beaux-arts de Montréal. There he encounters artists Franceso Iacurto, Pierre Narcisse Poirier, and Leo Ayotte who influenced his works and led to the development and application of his free style techniques. 

In 1949, he entered a portrait competition winning first prize with an oil painting of Minster Paul Sauvé.  The award, a grant from the Quebec government to perfect his art at the Academy of Montmartre France.

He declined the offer, and instead gave the award to his friend cartoonist Normand Hudon who had finished 2nd in the competition.

In 1965, the Canadian government requests thirty-five year old Viens to present at a Los Angeles exhibition. His works garner awards and result in further success in Europe. A magnificent work is held in Italy in the Cathedral of Padre Pio.

In Montreal he was devoted to his Jean Talon art studio. Fifteen artists under his direction and influence including renowned artists Lise Auger, André Bertunesque, Lionel Laurenceau, Hervey le Breton, and Denise Dion. Commercial works for major hotels and shops works, religious communities and private collections were commissioned.