On the evening of June 4th, Galerie Primeau in Old Montreal was the epicenter of a sophisticated celebration marking its expansion and first anniversary. Nestled at 383 Notre-Dame Street West, the gallery’s doors opened to an exclusive guest list, promising an experience that melded high art with elegant luxury.

© JF Galipeau

Marie-Josée Primeau, the internationally acclaimed artist and gallery owner, greeted her guests with her characteristic warmth and enthusiasm. The evening’s agenda was a tapestry of high-profile collaborations and artistic showcases, beginning with the gallery’s new space, a fusion of studio and exhibition area. This integration allows all to witness the creative process of Marie-Josée firsthand, enhancing the personal connection to her vibrant, emotion-laden works.

The Artist and her friend Pascale Bourbeau | © JF Galipeau

As the event commenced, guests were treated to a cocktail reception that effortlessly blended sophistication with a welcoming ambiance. The collaboration with Aston Martin Montreal was a highlight, as attendees were mesmerized by Marie-Josée’s live painting session on a stunning Aston Martin DB12 Coupe 2024.

Saxophonist Vinny Falcone and the Artist | © JF Galipeau

The car, a gleaming canvas in lightning silver with a dark knight/onyx interior, became a dynamic piece of art under Marie-Josée’s skilled hands, symbolizing the harmonious mix of art and automotive excellence.

The Aston Martin and the Artist | © JF Galipeau

Complementing the visual feast was a delicious delight from the renowned Ruinart champagne, courtesy of the LVMH Group. With Véronique Gonneville, national marketing director of Moët Hennessy Canada, in attendance, the sparkling wine flowed freely, adding a touch of effervescence to the evening to elevate the experience.

Champagne service team and the Artist | © JF Galipeau

The musical performances of the evening added a magical layer to the event. Saxophonist Vinny Falcone and violinist Marie Lacasse, with her exquisite Grancino 1689 violin, filled the air with their enchanting melodies. These performances, especially Lacasse’s, brought a soulful, classical charm to the modern gallery space, perfectly mirroring the timeless appeal of Marie-Josée’s artwork.

Violinist Marie Lacasse and the Artist | © JF Galipeau

Jewelry connoisseurs were equally delighted by the presence of diamond jeweler Pierre Robert of Maison St-Jean. Marie-Josée herself donned a striking necklace featuring her gallery’s logo, a testament to Robert’s exquisite craftsmanship and the seamless meld of fine art and fine jewelry.

The Artist wearing custom Maison St-Jean jewelry

One of the evening’s most unique moments was the “Primeau Experience,” where art collectors had the privilege of sabering champagne. This tradition, rooted in Napoleonic history, was reimagined by Primeau to celebrate the acquisition of her original works.

The Artist and the sabered bottle of Ruinart champagne | © JF Galipeau

The sight of guests, champagne in hand, before a grand red velvet curtain, with Marie-Josée herself guiding the ceremonial sabering, was a spectacle of joy and celebration.

Pierre Robert (Maison St-Jean), Marie-Josée Primeau (Galerie Primeau), Véronique Gonneville (Moët Hennessy Canada), and Maurice Assor (Aston Martin Montréal) drinking Ruinart champagne | © OK George! Studio

The evening concluded with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what lies ahead for Galerie Primeau, such as the much-anticipated Red Carpet Ready par Créations GAMA fashion show on June 19. As guests departed, they carried with them not just the memory of a glamorous evening, but a deeper appreciation for the art and the artist who made it all possible. The expansion of Galerie Primeau is not just a physical growth but a testament to the thriving, ever-evolving art scene in Montreal, helmed by the visionary Marie-Josée Primeau.

© JF Galipeau

About Primeau

Marie-Josée Primeau’s journey, as an artist and gallery owner, is as dynamic as her art. Having traveled to over 85 countries and lived in diverse cultures, her works are a vibrant reflection of her global experiences and charitable endeavors. Her time in Dubai, her philanthropic efforts in Zambia and Senegal, and her artistic feats like the live painting sessions at luxury venues, all weave into the rich tapestry of her career.

Location: 383 Notre-Dame St W, Old Montreal, Quebec H2Y 1V2
Facebook: Primeau-Artist-Painter
Instagram: @mariejoseeprimeau
Website: marie-josee-primeau.com

NEXT: Creations GAMA Wows with ‘Red Carpet Ready’ Collection Fashion Show