INTRODUCING ARTIST GABRIEL RIOUX

As part of our ongoing mission to spotlight local talent, we’ve teamed up with Birkenstock and Gabriel Rioux to create a painting that honors Birkenstock’s iconic cork footbed, all through the artist’s unique style.

The result? The perfect collaboration that blends artistry and footwear.

If you’ve ever worn a pair of Birkenstocks, then you get why the brand is a fan favourite.

A shoe that actually gets comfier the more you wear it? Say less. It’s all thanks to Birk’s signature cork footbed; soft, supportive, and slowly shaping itself to your feet. Basically a custom fit just for you. Kinda magical, tbh.

And nothing says spring-summer like a pair of Boston clogs or Arizona sandals. Simple, easy to style, and so comfy. You really can’t miss.

Along with the stunning painting by Gabriel Rioux, we had the opportunity to dive deeper into the artist’s creative process. Here’s what he had to say:

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Gabriel and I am a visual artist based in Montréal. Working primarily with airbrushed acrylics, my practice centers on atmospheric landscapes that explore themes of memory, nostalgia and nature.

How would you describe your art?

I paint dreamlike landscapes soft scenes shaped by memory, nature, and quiet spaces in between. Flowers, mountains, and shifting light guide my work. I want each piece to feel like a fleeting memoryfamiliar, but just out of reach.

From blank canvas to finished piece, what’s your creative process like?

My process is mostly intuitive. I usually start with a loose idea or feeling, but I try not to overthink it. Once I begin, the composition tends to guide itselfI go with the flow, letting shapes, colours, and other elements develop naturally. It's more about responding in the moment than sticking to a fixed plan.

Where do you find your inspiration? (People, places, playlists, objects, etc.?)

My inspiration comes from personal memories, nature, and objects that hold sentimental value to me. I often find myself drawn to items or places that remind me of family and childhoodthose quiet moments that evoke a sense of nostalgia. These elements blend together, guiding my work and shaping the atmosphere of each piece.

Can you tell us a bit about the piece you created for this collaboration?

For this collaboration, I created a landscape that evokes the serenity of a sun-drenched summer day. The painting unfolds with a soft blue sky, sweeping mountains, and the warmth of light stretching across the scene.

Central to the composition is a cork tree, which not only connects the work to the natural world but also serves as a nod to this collaboration with Birkenstock.

My main goal with this painting was to capture that fleeting moment where everything feels in perfect harmonycalm, expansive, and full of life.

Do you usually plan your work, or do you go with the flow?

Like I mentioned earlier, my process is mostly intuitiveI usually start with a general idea or feeling and let the work evolve from there.

I try not to overthink it, because I’ve found that the best results often come from responding in the moment. That being said, I stay mindful of the overall direction and make sure everything is aligning as it develops.

What can we expect from you in the near future?

I’m currently working on some paintings for my solo show at IMT Gallery in London this October. I’m really looking forward to presenting a fresh body of works that reflects where my practice is heading.

This exhibition is especially exciting for me, as it marks my first solo show in Europe!

What’s your vibe for this summer: more of a beach day or a festival kind of day?

Honestly, my summer vibe is more mountain tops and forest trails than beaches or festivals. Give me a scenic hike and some fresh mountain air and I'll be happy!