The Alpinist – Marc-André Leclerc Portrait Painting

Inspiration Behind my Portrait Painting of Marc-André Leclerc

I have no personal experience or interest, really, in climbing or alpinism. Yet I’ve watched the documentary, The Alpinist, at least six times. I think the way that Marc-André lived his life is so incredibly inspiring. And I seem to feel connected with anyone who is really passionate about something that other people think is a bit crazy or out of the norm. I connect with people who tend to take things to the extreme. I am fondly familiar with the experience of finding a passion that puts you into this flow state and finally quiets your busy mind.

Marc-André was living in a stairwell and then in a tent in the forest in order to be able to continue doing what he loved. And even after gaining sponsorship from Arc’teryx and having Red Bull making a film about him, he was more focused on climbing for himself than for any sort of media attention or money.

When I was looking for inspiration for my next portrait painting, I didn't want to just focus on what kind of painting would make me money. That's when Marc-André came to mind. My greatest motivation behind offering prints of this portrait? The thought that someone could hang this on their wall as a beacon of inspiration in their own passionate pursuits.

Check out my YouTube video further explaining the inspiration behind this portrait.