Claude Picher (May 30, 1927 – June 1998) was a prolific Quebec painter, best known for his dedication to portraying the landscapes and essence of Gaspésie, a region in Quebec that he believed was underrepresented in art. Born in Quebec, Picher began painting at the tender age of seven, and by fourteen, he was already winning prizes for his work. His talents were further recognized when, at nineteen, he held a solo exhibition at the Palais Montcalm.
Picher's educational journey in art began at the École des beaux-arts de Québec in 1945. However, his time there was short-lived as he quickly grew disenchanted with the conventional teaching methods. Seeking a more personal and liberating artistic exploration, he ventured to New York and later received scholarships from both the Quebec and French governments. This support enabled him to study at prestigious institutions like the École du Louvre and the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts in Paris. Picher also expanded his knowledge by visiting major museums across Europe.
Claude Picher; Perce in Winter
Upon returning to Quebec, Picher balanced his artistic pursuits with an administrative career. He served in several significant roles, including the director of exhibitions at the Musée du Québec (1951-1958), a representative of the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa (1958-1961), and deputy director of the Musée du Québec (1963-1964).
In 1973, he was elected a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, an honour that he cherished deeply, often incorporating the acronym R.C.A. with his signature. Throughout his career, Picher received numerous accolades, including the Lescarbot Prize, the commemorative medal for the 125th anniversary of Confederation, the Gaspésie Cultural Merit Prize (1992), and the Duke of Edinburgh Prize (1993). He was also a recipient of multiple scholarships from the Elisabeth Greenshields Foundation and the Canada Council for the Arts.
In 1971, Picher moved to Matane to teach at CEGEP but soon retired to focus exclusively on his art. Settling on a farm in Saint-Léandre, he dedicated himself to painting the Gaspésie region. His profound connection to this area was exemplified in 1991 when he donated 50 paintings to the City of Matane, promising to donate 50 more—a promise he fulfilled. These 100 paintings, forming the collection "The Color of Gaspésie," are managed by the Historical Society and Genealogy of Matane. Picher viewed this donation as his legacy to Gaspésie, expressing his gratitude to the land that inspired him profoundly.
Claude Picher's impact extended beyond his artistic contributions. He aimed to inspire young people in his community by providing them access to art and culture, showcasing the works of an internationally exhibiting painter.
Picher's death in 1998 at the age of 71, in Saint-Léandre, marked the end of a passionate and dedicated artistic life. His legacy, particularly through his extensive portrayal and donation of Gaspésie-themed paintings, left an indelible mark on Canadian art and culture.