Abstract painting by Yves Gaucher with a solid red background and thin horizontal purple and grey lines placed symmetrically down the length and edges of the piece.
Learn About

Colour, Language
& Storytelling

through the art of

Yves Gaucher

Grades 36

Colour, Language & Storytelling
through the art of Yves Gaucher

Abstract painter, printmaker, and collagist Yves Gaucher (1934–2000) grew up in Montreal and was known for his rebellious spirit. He was twice expelled from school yet went on to become one of Canada’s leading twentieth-century abstract painters. After a life-changing meeting with Canadian artist Arthur Lismer (1885–1969), a founding member of the Group of Seven, Gaucher devoted himself fully to art and developed his style in the post-Plasticien movement. He is best known for his large monochromatic paintings, often inspired by his love of music. Gaucher became a leader among Canadian artists, and his art has been shown in galleries around the world. In this guide Gaucher’s paintings are the starting point for investigations of colour in art, language, and storytelling.

Learning Activities
  • Explore meanings of different colours
  • Colours, side by side: Lessons from the post-Plasticiens
  • Create a graphic storyboard using colour panels
Related Subjects
  • Language
  • Media Literacy
  • Visual Arts

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Colour, Language & Storytelling through the art of Yves Gaucher