On September 25, 26 and 27, the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent is hosting the second annual Route des Arts, an opportunity for art lovers to tour the workshops of artists and artisans across the region. Amanda Darveau, the cultural development officer of the MRC, says that this is a way for artists to “to introduce the public to their work and their creative world … some of them actually organize activities.”
One of the stops along the way is Noël & Pepin, a cabinetmaking workshop run by Réal Noël and his wife, Johanne Pepin. Noël has been a cabinetmaker for close to 40 years and makes one-of-a-kind pieces, limited-edition items and custom-made furniture. He says, “We create architectural elements that contribute to the preservation and enrichment of our built heritage, as well as decorative and functional objects designed as one-of-a-kind pieces or in limited editions.” They use wood, plastics, and non-ferrous metals.
Earlier this year, Noël was presented with Professional Artisan status from the CMAQ (Conseils des métiers d’art du Québec). The CMAQ works to preserve the integrity of artistic practice in Quebec. According to the website, “The CMAQ brings together and represents professional craftspeople, supports their professional development, and promotes the dissemination and marketing of their creations. To this end, it collaborates with the entire crafts ecosystem in Quebec and across Canada.”
Being certified with them is a rigorous process, and anyone who qualifies is considered a master in what they do. About this recognition, Noël says, “This wonderful recognition marks an important milestone in my career and highlights my commitment to my craftsmanship and artistic practice.”
He is excited to welcome visitors to his workshop for a second year, and to share what he has been working on with the patrons of the Route des Arts.
Both Noël and Darveau believe that an event like this is important for local artists, and good for the community. “There are a lot of people here who don’t realize just how many artists there actually are. So really, the goal is to encourage that discovery and that connection between artists and their audience,” Darveau says.
Noël adds, “When people come to visit our workshops, they discover not only our creations but also our shops, restaurants, lodging, and everything else our region has to offer.” Being involved with the Route des Arts has even increased his own awareness of the region, and he hopes to see artist visibility expand across Quebec.
The only qualification an artist needs to be a part of this event is to be based in the region. Darveau encourages people to look at the map of artists on the MRC website and make appointments with the artists you’re interested in visiting before showing up. They will be happy to welcome guests into their spaces!
More information can be found at mrchsl.com/route-des-arts.