Évain

In this photo from 1950, you can see the first rectory and church in the village of Évain. The rectory has since been replaced, and a covered walkway has been built between it and the church.

The Évain neighborhood, like Arntfield, is located on the watershed that separates the waters flowing south toward the St. Lawrence Valley from those flowing north toward James Bay.

While you’re in Évain, be sure to stop by the Chez Gibb convenience store, which offers over 1,000 varieties of beer from all over Quebec.

Photo source: BAnQ

Right in front of the church, a 1952 view of what is now the École de l’Étincelle. If you look closely, you’ll notice that the window frames are still the same today. In the background, you can catch a glimpse of the Lebrun general store, built at the beginning of the settlement and which served as a stopping point for settlers before they were assigned land and moved out to the outlying areas.

Photo source: BAnQ

The Elder mine facilities around 1950.

Photo source: BAnQ

This artwork reflects the past, present, and future of the Évain neighborhood.

It depicts various aspects of rural life, including the role of women at that time, as symbolized by a mother and her daughter surrounded by produce harvested from the farm and our forests—a true blessing for families. The contribution of the lumberjacks is illustrated by the small log cabin, and the miners’ arduous dedication is depicted on the barn mural.

Small holographic images appear, evoking icons of the village of Évain, such as the elephant in Victor Park, as well as the church and the illuminated cross on the mountain, which represent the importance of religion at that time.

The future is suggested by the inclusion of a holographic panel symbolizing the advancement of cutting-edge technology, which is an integral part of the artist’s approach. The insertion of the image of the colorful blue-eyed hen laying blue eggs is a playful nod by the artist that references her creativity.

Artist: Céline J. Dallaire

Year: 2016

Media: acrylic on UHD panel

After completing her fine arts studies in the United States in the fields of graphic art, painting, and fiber and textiles, Céline J. Dallaire founded her Academy of Arts, which is still active today. Since returning to the region, she has focused primarily on printmaking, painting, and digital art. She has participated in and organized several exhibitions.

Photo credit: Abitibi-Témiscamingue Culture Council

1932: The first settlers arrived and the parish of Saint-Bernard-de-Beauchastel was founded, followed by the opening of the Aldermac Mine

1936: The New Arntfield Mine opened

1947: The parish of Évain was established, named after the post office that opened in 1936

1954: Establishment of the village

1959: Water supply project

1976: Merger of Beauchastel and Évain

2002: Merger with the other municipalities of the MRC