May 23, 2024
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The City of Edmundston once again had to remove chainsaw made wooden sculptures by Mr. Albert Deveau between 1986 and 1991, during the Foire Brayonne. Just like those removed at City Hall, most of these sculptures, made from white pine logs, were completely rotten from the inside, despite Mr. Deveau's good care over the years.
Fortin du Petit-Sault's soldier sculpture was removed in the fall of 2023 and Typique's sculpture will be removed from Petit-Sault Park shortly. The City of Edmundston, in collaboration with the Arts Centre, is currently looking into the best actions to take for the future.
"Mr. Deveau himself took care of the upkeep and maintenance of his works. Even with his good care, the wooden sculptures deteriorated under the sun and natural weather. Due to their imposing weight, it was unfortunately necessary to remove these sculptures for safety reasons," explained Mayor Eric Marquis.
Originally from the Madawaska area, Mr. Deveau, who passed in 2022, was passionate about the history of the region, and over the years, he enjoyed paying tribute to the roots of Madawaska through his giant sculptures. The City of Edmundston is aware of the importance of preserving works of art on its territory, and recognizes the important legacy of Mr. Deveau.
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CONTACT: M. Eric Marquis, Mayor of Edmundston, 506.739.2115
(Photos by Luc A. Charette)