Montreal-based artist Myriam Dion has garnered international acclaim for her intricate paper-cut artworks that transform everyday newspapers into mesmerizing masterpieces. Born in 1989, Dion holds a Master’s degree in Visual Arts and Media from the Université du Québec à Montréal. Her meticulous technique and innovative approach have positioned her as a prominent figure in contemporary art.
Dion’s creative process involves repurposing old newspapers, meticulously cutting and weaving tiny strips of material to create elaborate collages
She often incorporates gold leaf and adds drawing and painting details to enhance the visual depth of her pieces. Her work draws inspiration from various art forms, including architectural details found in mosaics and textile arts such as weaving, tapestry, carpets, embroidery, and lacework. This fusion results in artworks characterized by intricate geometric patterns and floral motifs that invite viewers to engage with print media from a fresh perspective.
Through her art, Myriam Dion invites audiences to reconsider the transient nature of news and the enduring impact of historical narratives, all while celebrating the meticulous artistry of traditional crafts.
In her recent solo exhibition, “Timelines”, held at Arsenal Contemporary Art in New York City in the end of last year, Dion delved into significant milestones in women’s history, particularly focusing on labor rights and suffrage movements of the 20th century in the United States. By utilizing vintage newspapers and hand-painted designs, she crafted collages that not only highlight historical events but also underscore the evolving portrayal of women in media. The exhibition emphasized the vulnerability of these hard-earned rights, serving as a poignant reminder of their importance in contemporary society. Timelines is currently on show at the Blouin-Division in Montréal till the 5th of April.
Dion’s dedication to her craft has been recognized and awarded by various institutions, including the Post-Residency Award from the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Her works have been showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Canada and internationally, and are part of several public collections, including the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec and the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal. You can follow Dion’s work and career on Instagram.
Paper Patchwork. Ink and pencil drawing on hand-cut Japanese paper, collage of newspapers, maple wood stick, 297 cm x 273 cm, 2024. Photos : Greg Carideo, Arsenal NY.
Folding skirt. Wood pencil drawing on Japanese paper cut with a knife, 2024. Photos : Greg Carideo, Arsenal NY.
Darning Samplers. Collage and weaving of newspaper and Japanese paper cut with a knife, painting and drawing, 59,5 cm x 188 cm each (triptyque). Photos : Greg Carideo, Arsenal NY.
Gloria Vanderbilt, The Times Star, Bridgeport, Connecticut, Friday Everning June 3, 1938. Drawing on Japenese paper glued on newspaper, paper cut-out, paper weaving an gold lead, 184 cm x 112 cm, 2024.
Marie Curie, Radium discoverer to visit America, February 10, 1921. Collage of hand-cut newspaper and Japanese paper, painting, drawing, paper weaving and gold leaf, 108 x 110 cm, 2024.
© Myriam Dion