Created in 1991 as the second in a trilogy of career-defining solo dance pieces, Le tentation de la transparence marked a major development in the work of dancer and choreographer Paul-André Fortier. Fortier was inspired by the artwork of the visual artist, Betty Goodwin, who eventually came to collaborate with him on the creation of La tentation de la transparence. Now at the end of his dance career, Paul-André Fortier has graciously donated the set and archival materials of La tentation de la transparence to the National Arts Centre. As one of the co-producers of the piece in 1991, the NAC is thrilled to accept this work into its collection of fine art and performing arts archive.

Paul-André Fortier is a Canadian dancer and choreographer based in Montreal, Quebec. He has performed throughout the world and collaborated extensively. His work helped establish Montreal as a major dance centre and through his teaching he has fostered future generations of talent. Fortier has received the highest honours throughout his career, including the Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (France), the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award, and has been appointed Officer to the Order of Canada and Officier de l’Ordre national du Québec.

Betty Goodwin (1923 – 2008) was a Canadian printmaker, sculptor, painter, and installation artist. She has been exhibited extensively in Montreal, Toronto, and New York. She has had solo shows at the National Gallery of Canada, served as Canada’s representative to the Venice Biennial, and was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada.