Evocative Paintings Demonstrate the Masks Women Wear

“The Cage, Smoke Rising to the Sky” acrylic on canvas

Montreal-based artist Sandra Chevrier She is known for her paintings, illustrations, and street art pieces that combine attractive images of women with aspects of comic book culture. Her latest exhibition, A cage and a house in it, It displays for the first time a collection of 35 paintings that took two years to prepare. Based on her well-known photo series cages, These new images use a variety of media to communicate a message about our limits and the external forces that shape us.

Taking place in Miami Goldman International Art GalleryThe exhibition is Chevrier’s largest exhibition to date. “Years ago, I discovered Sandra Shivrier’s work at an art gallery and was blown away,” says Jessica Goldman Srebnick, CEO of Goldman Global Arts and curator of Wynwood Walls. “Her work spoke to me as a woman unlike any artist I have met in my career. With every look, I felt the power of her paintings sink into my being. Her paintings remind me of the extraordinary power of women and that they unapologetically embrace our strength.”

Through her evocative paintings, Chevrier’s commentary on the masks worn by women in society is something that resonates with any woman. Through the power of her art, Chevrier gives a visual image of the internal pressure that many women face today.

We had the opportunity to speak with Chevrier about this powerful series of images and the exhibition that runs until January 2026. Scroll down for the exclusive interview with My Modern Met.

“The cage acts like the wind”, acrylic on linen

What inspired this work?

I began thinking and working on this exhibition in 2023, which was its tenth anniversary Cages series. This milestone has really motivated me to showcase some classic works, both hand-drawn reinterpretations and evolutions of my favorite pieces, alongside brand new images that reflect my ongoing journey as an artist and person.

These different chapters are inspired by the ups and downs I’ve been through, my losses, the hard times, and the time I spent discovering my identity, especially with all the expectations society places on us. The idea of ​​liberation crystallized when I started thinking about breaking free from those restrictions. I have tried to capture those moments of chaos and calm in my latest work, illustrating the struggles and triumphs. Isolation during the pandemic has made me more aware of how limited we are physically and mentally, leading me to think more deeply about freedom and what it means to define myself.

“Goodbye La Cage to Storms and Hurricanes”, acrylic on linen canvas

Why does the topic of editing speak to you?

Liberation is important to me because it taps into our natural desire to be free from the norms and restrictions that society imposes on us. I want to highlight those transformative moments in my artwork, and show how power, and even a little chaos, can lead to potential. This topic serves as a reminder that while we long for freedom, there are often obstacles—both from the world around us and from within ourselves. My art amplifies these battles and victories, and I hope it encourages people to reflect on their own journeys toward empowerment.

Freedom is closer to an illusion than reality. We are surrounded by laws, rules, and customs that shape our lives and hold us back. However, if we choose to listen to our hearts and follow our true desires, we can find a sense of freedom within ourselves. Instead of feeling trapped by the restrictions around us, we can create a safe space inside, a kind of comfortable home, even within the confines of the cages that life places around us. Here, we can be ourselves and experience a true sense of freedom: A cage and a house in it.

“The Cage and the Value of Life” Mix media on Dragon Cloud rice paper

How does using different media help you express your vision?

Using a range of materials allows me to delve into these complex topics in a layered way. I play with everything from inks and watercolors to spray paint, acrylics, rice paper, gingham and linen, as well as bold mosaics. Each medium brings its own atmosphere to the table.

I really enjoyed working with rice paper; It adds a beautiful touch to my pieces which enhances the overall experience and encourages self-reflection. Cotton canvas allows for clear, defined lines, which is great for drawing details of portraits and picture books. The fabric and texture of linen gives me more freedom in my brushing, and I love the natural texture and color of linen, which I often use as part of my backgrounds while leaving some of it exposed.

“The Cage and Mutual Feeling”, acrylic on canvas

What medium was the most difficult to work with?

My biggest challenge so far has been hand drawing picture books. It takes a lot of detail and a lot of patience, but it’s also very rewarding and almost like meditation. I put the flat colors first, and lastly, I add the black outlines, which bring everything together.

Most satisfying?

Add fire element to my file Cages It has been the most satisfying series for me. It brings a new perspective to my work. Fire energy is frozen over time, creating a feeling of tension and anticipation. While chaos reigns supreme, the images remain calm and collected, ready for that final step toward freedom. When I paint, I feel a sense of freedom and a deeper connection to my artistic vision, which is really comforting.

“The Cage and the Heartbeat”, mix media on Drago Cloud rice paper

What do you hope people get from this exhibition?

I want people to walk away feeling inspired and introspective, ready to confront their stories and the “masks” they wear. It is important for them to know that there is someone who understands what they are going through as they seek freedom amidst all the societal pressures. By engaging with the themes in my work, I hope to spark conversations about balancing the desire for freedom with the realities that hold us back, and promoting self-acceptance and personal growth.

“The Cage When the Wind Parts the Sky” acrylic on canvas

What’s next for you?

Looking to the future, I’m excited to continue exploring the theme of breaking free from Cages And experiment with new ideas and techniques. I want to go deeper into “Destroy the Mask” while adding more dramatic or theatrical elements as well. During my trip to Paris this summer, I was inspired by the dramatic sculptures in the Jardin du Luxembourg, leading me to some new painting ideas that I hope to realize in a new series of paintings. My creative journey is always evolving, and I plan to continue reflecting life’s complexities through my art. Art will always be my first language.

Exhibition information:
A cage and a house in it
October 24, 2025 – January 2026
GGA Gallery
2516 NW 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33127

Sandra Chevrier: Website | Instagram | Facebook

My Modern Met has granted permission to display photographs taken by Sandra Chevrier.

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