In 1971, Louise Cimon-Annett and Louise Gervais founded the Atelier le Fil d'Ariane.
Their goal was to offer intellectually challenged adults a gratifying occupation , a purpose in life and a chance for partial financial support, thus allowing them to find their unique place in society through their artistic contributions.
Since 1971 the Atelier Le Fil d'Ariane has allowed hundreds of people to discover a new world, filled with freedom and pride, through Creative expression. Every day, these people have been able to fulfill their artistic and personal potential in many ways.
Like Theseus in Greek mythology, to whom Ariane gave a thread to find his way out of the labyrinth and into the light of Crete, they too have found their place in the sun.
Five days a week, 20 adults aged 18 years old or over show up to work on their own and perform tasks according to a normal work schedule. At their own pace they produce art embroidery filled with vivid and unique colours.
Dazzling and bursting with originality, their craft works constitute a bright montage of simplified symbols, surprisingly close to certain aspects of American Indian art.
Social and cultural activities are organized to help them gain confidence. Regular visits to museums, exhibitions and certain enterprises have been set up as part of our developement program.
Many solo and group exhibitions have been critically acclaimed not only in Canada but throughout Europe, the United States and Japan. Wherever there is an exhibition of their work, it becomes a symbol of hope and pride.
