Resounding success for MAC’s 60^th, with its Bal edition at the brand new ROYALMOUNT

On Saturday, September 14th, nearly 800 guests from the arts and business communities gathered at the new ROYALMOUNT for the Bal du Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MAC). Organized under the theme “Fantasmagorie”, the event transported guests into a world where mystery and artistic inspiration converged, creating an elegant and captivating experience in celebration of the MAC’s 60th anniversary. The funds raised during the evening allow the Foundation to donate nearly one million dollars to the MAC.

This special edition of the Bal du MAC was marked by the exceptional support of its honorary co-chairs: Stephen Bronfman, co-chair of the Claudine and Stephen Bronfman Family Foundation and co-chair of the MAC’s major fundraising campaign; Julie Couture, Chair of the Fondation du MAC’s Board of Directors; and Laurent Ferreira, President and CEO of National Bank. The evening, orchestrated by the organizing committee chaired by Marie-Josée Simard, a member of the MAC Foundation’s Board of Directors, was produced by the team at LaBoum, with artistic direction by Anita Bombita and visual identity by Cossette, providing attendees with a fully immersive artistic experience.

Stephen Bronfman addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of the business community’s involvement in supporting contemporary art: “Celebrating MAC’s 60th anniversary is about honoring the legacy of an institution that has evolved over the decades. This event is a unique opportunity to support the future of contemporary art in Montreal.”

Anne Lebel, Executive Director of the Fondation du MAC, added: “We are deeply grateful to all of our guests and the many partners of the evening who contributed to its resounding success. The funds raised are essential to the Museum’s activities, particularly in the context of the Museum’s transformation.”

The evening culminated in numerous surprises for the guests, including the unveiling of an artwork created especially for the event by Montreal artist Dean Baldwin Lew, marking a highlight of the celebration. Among the attendees were numerous public figures, politicians, and philanthropists, all contributing to supporting the MAC’s mission.

Thanks to the generosity of its partners, notably the Claudine and Stephen Bronfman Family Foundation, National Bank, and ROYALMOUNT as the hosting partner, the Bal du MAC remains one of the year’s most anticipated events. For this 2024 edition, gift bags were provided by Dermapure, with the photo studio and makeup retouching offered by Rennaï. The Foundation would also like to thank all the participants for their support, especially the 60th partner: Sanimax, as well as the evening’s governing partners: Air Canada, AtkinsRéalis, National Bank, Scotia Bank, Chanel, Desjardins, Fasken, Fiera Capital, Claudine and Stephen Bronfman Family Foundation, Carbonleo Real Estate Inc., KPMG, Quebécor and RBC Capital Markets. 

Thanks to service partners Bajouk Signature, Foufou and Brera, as well as Boissons Guru, Patrón, SAQ and Vins Balthazard. Raffle prizes, courtesy of Air Canada, Bijouterie italienne and ROYALMOUNT, also contributed to the evening’s success. The funds raised enable the MAC to continue its educational activities, enrich its collection, and spotlight renowned Quebec and international artists.

About the Fondation du MAC

The mission of the Fondation du Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal is to support the Museum in its various areas of activity, including enriching its collection, producing exhibitions, promoting artists, and running educational programs. The Foundation’s mandate is to solicit funds from businesses, philanthropic foundations, and individuals interested in the dissemination and conservation of contemporary Quebec, Canadian, and international art. The Foundation thus contributes to the influence of Canada’s very first major institution dedicated entirely to contemporary art: the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal.

About the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal

For 60 years, the MAC has been fostering encounters between local and international artists, their works, and diverse audiences, celebrating art as an essential component of life in Montreal and Quebec. The Museum’s headquarters, located in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, is undergoing a major architectural transformation. During the renovation, the MAC has temporarily relocated its activities to Place Ville Marie, another iconic Montreal location. Throughout the construction, the Museum continues to reach the public through temporary exhibitions showcasing exceptional artists and presenting a wide range of artistic practices. In addition to two main exhibitions per year, the MAC at Place Ville Marie offers public programs, as well as a broad array of educational services and community outreach activities.