Collect Benoit Sculptures at the Rockport Library – Knox County VillageSoup

André Benoit

ROCKPORT – During the month of December, the Rockport Public Library presents an exhibition of multi-dimensional multimedia art by abstract assembling sculptor André Benoit. The exhibition features Benoit’s signature human and animal forms and iconic patterns created with repurposed scrap wood. The exhibition is located on the “Art Wall” on the lower level of the library at 1 Limerock St.

In addition to wood fragments, Benoit’s work incorporates shipwrecks and jetsams from the shore, trim from renovated homes, as well as broken and discarded furniture. “What I enjoy most about working with salvaged materials,” Benoit said, “are the stories behind my acquisition and the ability to merge unrelated pieces into a composition that commands a second look.”

Work by André Benoit

Aged components are laden with contours and patinas from exposure to the outdoors, the ocean, and the rigors of their previous purposes. Regarding color and finish, Benoit said: “My use of pigment is sparing to avoid it overpowering the overall impression and not obscuring the beauty of the wood surface. I embrace the concept of wabi-sabi with the intentional use of asymmetry and a somewhat unfinished appearance to capture spontaneity and enhance the overall impression of my work.

Benoit lives in Boothbay Harbor. In addition to exhibit at the Rockport Public Library, Benoit’s work can be seen and sold throughout the Midcoast at Knox County Airport, Archipelago in Rockland, Carver Hill Gallery in Camden, and Lincolnville Fine Art Gallery. To learn more about the artist, visit andrebenoit-art.com.