Standing here before the Raymond Lévêque Mural, can you feel the echoes of a song that touched the world? This mosaic mural pays homage to Raymond Lévêque a celebrated Montreal artist. It is located at the corner of Ontario and Bordeaux streets. Laurent Gascon created this vibrant piece in 2011.
The Raymond Lévêque Mural specifically celebrates his iconic song “Quand les hommes vivront d’amour”. This translates to “When men live by love”. Lévêque wrote it in 1956. It became an anthem for peace. The song achieved global success.
“Quand les hommes vivront d’amour” has been translated into many languages. Numerous artists have performed it. Eddie Constantine Robert Charlebois and Gilles Vigneault are among them. Even the band Offenbach and singer Nicole Croisille lent their voices to this timeless piece. The Raymond Lévêque Mural immortalizes this song’s message.
Laurent Gascon the artist behind this mural founded l’Escouade de la Muralité in 1971. His goal was to bring art to the streets. Gascon participated in the Corrid’art project in 1976. It was an exhibition organized for the Olympic Games on Sherbrooke Street.
During the 80s and 90s Laurent Gascon explored new mediums. He developed his unique ceramic mosaic technique in the Dominican Republic. In 2009 he created his first ceramic mural in Montreal. This earlier work paid tribute to the artist Vittorio.
The Raymond Lévêque Mural is one of several murals Gascon has created. These works honor various cultural figures. Vittorio the poster artist is celebrated. Comedian Paul Buissonneau and the théâtre La Roulotte are also subjects. Singers Marjo Pauline Julien and Plume Latraverse are featured. And comedian Robert Gravel is also among those honored by Gascon.
Take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the Raymond Lévêque Mural. The mosaic shimmers in the sunlight. It reflects the enduring power of Lévêque’s message. It is a message of peace and love.
As you stand here remember the song “Quand les hommes vivront d’amour”. Imagine its melody filling the streets. Think of its words resonating in hearts around the world. This mural is more than art. It is a tribute to a legacy of hope. It is a symbol of Montreal’s vibrant cultural spirit. The Raymond Lévêque Mural reminds us of the power of art. It inspires us to live by love.