Manuel Mathieu: An Artist's Journey from Canvas to Scent
Manuel Mathieu, a celebrated artist with roots in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, embarked on a transformative journey that led him to Montreal at the age of nineteen. His dedication to his craft culminated in a Master's degree in Fine Arts from Goldsmiths, University of London, in 2016. Mathieu's artistic endeavors are deeply personal and culturally resonant, frequently delving into significant historical narratives, collective memory, and the enduring spirit of resilience, especially concerning Haitian heritage and the diasporic experience. Through a distinctive abstract visual language, he masterfully integrates both figurative and abstract elements, crafting profound emotional and resonant visual encounters for his audience.
Mathieu's compelling body of work has garnered international acclaim, featuring prominently in prestigious art institutions such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery in Toronto, and the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. His creations are highly sought after, forming part of esteemed public and private collections, including those of Hydro-Québec, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, and the National Gallery of Canada. Expanding his artistic repertoire, Mathieu ventured into the realm of video and cinema in 2023–2024, notably with his award-winning film installation, 'Pendulum', a testament to his versatile and ever-evolving creative vision. This diversification underscores his commitment to exploring new avenues of expression.
In a groundbreaking move in 2025, Manuel Mathieu further diversified his artistic expression by launching his unique perfume brand, 'Chapter 1'. This collection introduces three unisex fragrances—Dsire, Île noire, and ECCCO—developed in close collaboration with the renowned perfumer Juliette Karagueuzoglou. Each handcrafted ceramic bottle, echoing the majestic high mountain landscapes of Haiti, serves as a poignant symbol of the seamless integration of visual art, profound emotion, and cherished memory. Mathieu's expansion into perfumery represents a natural evolution of his artistic practice, offering a sensory bridge that connects his abstract paintings and cinematic narratives to the tactile and olfactory world. This innovative approach allows memory, form, emotion, and storytelling to converge, providing a holistic and immersive experience that transcends traditional artistic boundaries.
Through his diverse and evolving artistic expressions, Manuel Mathieu exemplifies the boundless potential of human creativity to explore, interpret, and shape our understanding of identity, history, and emotion. His commitment to intertwining personal narratives with broader cultural themes across various mediums enriches our collective experience and fosters a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of art. Mathieu's journey inspires us to embrace innovation and recognize the profound impact art can have in connecting us to our heritage and to each other, demonstrating that true artistry knows no limits and constantly seeks new ways to convey meaning and evoke feeling.