Robin at Geraniums in Art is determined to highlight artists who create sculptures depicting Geraniums or Pelargoniums in their compositions and wishes to spotlight the work of the Canadian Artist, Miss Rose-Aimée Bélanger (1923 - 2023), born in Montreal, QC. Who produced a diverse body of sculptural work characterised by a whimsical and voluptuous style, often infused with elements of humour and a contemplative nature. Her later oeuvre notably included works in sandstone and bronze that showcased her ability to create figures imbued with life and a deep sense of personality. 

One distinct motif in her sculptures was the inclusion of Geranium flowers, which added a layer of organic detail and vibrancy to her forms.

Rose-Aimée's subjects have been imagined or envisioned from her immediate social environment—capturing the essence of her family, friends, and local figures throughout her life. Her sculptures depict these individuals in candid and familiar poses. Female subjects engaged in leisurely activities, daydreaming, reading, or gathering berries, while men appear in moments of labour or rest. This portrayal of her subjects reveals a commitment to realism and emotional depth, rendering them not merely as static figures but as narratives alive with personal stories and cultural resonance.

The aesthetic qualities of Rose-Aimée's work feature inflated shapes that grant her figures both a gracious yet substantial presence. This juxtaposition embodies an intriguing paradox—her forms, despite their heft, retain an illusion of lightness, meticulously articulated through her stylistic choices. The final result resonates with an aura of calm and serenity, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional and contextual subtleties inherent in her sculpture.

According to the Team at Canada House Gallery (Edited),

Shortly after obtaining her degree from École des Beaux-Arts in Montreal, Rose-Aimée paused her artistic endeavours to prioritise her responsibilities as a wife and mother. Approximately thirty years later, she embarked on a dedicated return to sculpting, demonstrating remarkable perseverance and commitment. Resuming a creative practice in her late fifties, particularly after a significant hiatus, is an unusual feat, yet she approached this revival with exceptional flair.

After celebrating her centennial milestone in July 2023, Rose-Aimée passed away in November of the same year. Throughout her sculptural work, she consistently showcased a profound ability to compel viewers to pause and engage with the present moment. Each bronze figure she created communicates not just a physical form but also encapsulates memories, concepts, or fleeting instances in time. Her contributions to Canadian sculpture are noteworthy, and her legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.

Established in 1974, Canada House Gallery represents Canadian, Indigenous, and Inuit artists, exhibiting Modern and contemporary paintings, sculptures, jewellery, prints, and textiles in beautiful Banff, Alberta. *(Here we wish to thank them for their collaboration and friendship, Robin.)