Zïlon
Zïlon (Raymond Pilon) – A Legend of Quebec Street Art
Born in 1956 in Laval, Raymond Pilon, better known as Zïlon, left behind an indelible legacy in the world of art. Considered a leading figure of Montreal’s 1970s and 80s underground punk movement, Zïlon was also one of the pioneers of Quebec street art, propelling this art form and its aesthetic onto the international scene. On July 28, 2023, the world of Quebec art lost one of its key figures, a creator whose influence continues to resonate across generations.
At the start of his career, Zïlon made a name for himself in the punk music scene of Montreal. However, an accident during a performance—when a piano fell on his hand—led him to change direction. This event prompted him to express his passion and emotions in ways other than through music. It was then that he found his visual voice and created his iconic face, which became emblematic and which he would draw and renew throughout his works. These faces, painted on canvases, paper, wood, and even on the walls of Montreal, multiplied, overlapped, and fragmented to tell the emotions of a man, a generation, and a movement that carried him.
Zïlon, often referred to as the "father of Quebec street art," saw in this mode of expression a way to merge his passions for underground culture, design, and social activism. His artistic vision, fueled by a punk energy that never waned, allowed him to metabolize popular culture and turn it into a unique language—a personal, inimitable signature. His works became fragments of his own portrait, redefined through every line, every color, and every creative impulse.
His collaborations with international artists and brands testify to the far-reaching influence of his art. He worked with iconic figures such as Gilles Carle, Jacques Languirand, Robert Lepage, Wajdi Mouawad, and Claude Péloquin. Zïlon also participated in major events such as the Montreal Jazz Festival, the Montreal International Fashion and Design Festival, and the Film and Art Festival. His creativity knew no bounds, with his works being showcased in prestigious venues and innovative projects from Paris to Tokyo. Notable collaborations include painting clothes for Philippe Dubuc’s fashion show in Paris in 2003, creating works for the launch of Givenchy’s makeup line in 2013, and designing decorative elements for the video game Far Cry New Dawn in 2018. He also created a mural for the Théâtre Le Diamant in Quebec City in 2019.
Zïlon’s distinctive style, both provocative and sensitive, is evident in all his works, whether small or monumental. His faces reflect a complex inner world and the turbulence of his generation, but also an inexhaustible creative energy. Zïlon never stopped pushing the boundaries of art, whether through his murals or immersive installations, which had already been present in his work as early as the mid-80s.
Despite his international fame, Zïlon remained a deeply human man, sensitive and attached to his roots. His close friends and family remember him not only as a creative genius but also as a loyal friend and a profoundly generous person. His friend and collaborator Vincent Beauchamp expressed his admiration and gratitude for the opportunity to work with him, highlighting the lasting impact Zïlon had on his life and the lives of many others.
Zïlon was preparing a new series called VANDALE DE LUXE II and was also working on a collaboration with artist Patrick Pépin. He was also in the midst of preparing a book about his work. Unfortunately, these unfinished projects remain as a testament to his creative energy and his indelible influence on contemporary art.
Zïlon’s works continue to be showcased in exhibitions around the world, and his impact on street art remains immeasurable. His vision, talent, and artistic rebellion will endure through his works and the memory of this iconic artist. The world of Quebec art has lost a legend, but his legacy will live on through his works and the inspiration he continues to evoke.
Thank you, Zïlon, for everything you left us. We miss you deeply.