2026 — Urban Portraits — Harcourt House Artist Run Centre

The exhibition Urban Portraits showcases a cohesive suite of paintings by Raymond Thériault, an Edmonton-based visual artist whose vibrant, meticulously detailed works capture the essence of contemporary urban life. His paintings blend architectural elements – concrete and glass, brick and stonework, curbs and doorways – with the subtle presence of people, creating richly layered compositions that celebrate the energy and character of the city.

Echoing the spirit of urban scenes explored by artists associated with French Post-Impressionism and German Expressionism, Raymond’s work transforms familiar streetscapes into compelling visual experiences. Each of these cityscapes invites viewers to step inside and explore. They are places where one longs to spend time, wander through, and become immersed. Slow, thoughtful observation of these paintings reveals new details and relationships the longer they are contemplated.

This exhibition includes both luminous daytime scenes and evocative nocturnal views, each capturing a fleeting moment in time. Our city, like many others, has undergone dramatic change, prompting us to ask: What have we lost? What have we gained? And what do we want our cities to look like in the future?