Marc André Jacques Fortier was born in Westmount, Québec, on April 19, 1961. He inherited from his parents—his father a rather pragmatic notary and his mother an intellectual, writer and drama teacher—curiosity, strength of character and the desire to always outdo himself. From a young age, young Fortier expressed his thoughts with style through a visual language all his own, intimately linked to his roots. At school, his drawing pencils very quickly became his faithful companions.

After a life-changing trip to Central America, he left Collège Jean-de-Brébeuf, and his art studies, to set out on a journey of self-discovery. The year was 1979. Fortier chose to exile on the other end of Canada where, for 10 years, he worked at various jobs that forged his identity. It was at this time that the artist in him began to fully emerge.

Drawing on the theatrical influence of his youth and a mature and clear-headed perspective on the human adventure, Fortier strives to live life to the fullest. His joyful and constructive way of experiencing life is reflected both on the canvas and the media used. Influenced by the style of German expressionism, the symbolism of the Surrealists and the counterculture that is central to the pop art movement, the artist in turn builds his own repertoire. His art is figurative, evocative, energetic, positive and colourful, going beyond trends and with a constant concern for esthetics. Like a playful, often ironic, sometimes provocative narrative, Fortier challenges appearances, lightheartedly pointing out certain questionable aspects of human behaviour in society.

This disciplined, methodical and passionate self-taught artist works with proven and durable mediums, and his vision provides a unique perspective on our journey through time.