Patrick Denoun
by Heather Wilson
Winter-Spring 2003


Patrick Denoun’s reverent interpretations of the “emotional vibrations of natural and simple things” uplift one’s spirits. Exalting the basics – animals, children, “people who touch the earth” – he speaks lovingly of each piece. In current works, Sahara scenes exude dignity and joy – his paternal roots Algerian and his wife, Cathy, born there. They live serenely, in a secluded country home 10 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, where 18-month-old twins Sasha and Max romp with the family dog, Patrick paints his passions and life is about as idyllic as it gets.

“It’s important to live and work in a beautiful environment,” he says. “When I have positive feelings in my heart, when I’m happy, my work reflects that energy. I love playing with the reflection of light and the possibility of layering paintings. I’m always trying to find ways to make them both very figurative and abstract.”

Born in Paris in 1950, he moved here 16 years ago from Saint Tropez, where life was good. “But I found something even better – the weather, the wonderful Mexican people who are always open to possibility, and the proximity to the United States, which I also love.”

Exhibited widely in Europe, North Africa, Mexico and the USA, as well as in India and Asia, Galería Pacifico hosts a cocktail opening of his latest works Friday, February 28, 6 - 10 pm, with the exhibition on display until March 18. Gary Thompson of Galeria Pacifico says, “Patrick stands out in the Vallarta art scene. His training and experience are unparalleled, and to my eyes, so is his raw talent. Early training in sculpting has given him an edge in composition and perspective, and his deep love of the Mexican people manifests in the way he captures the human essence of any scene.”