It is with great enthusiasm that the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal (MAC) announces the continuation of work on its historic transformation, which will enhance its integration into the Société de la Place des Arts de Montréal complex, in the Quartier des spectacles, in 2028. Following the second call for tenders held in fall 2023, we received bids that respect the transformation budget and recently signed contracts with the contractors selected to continue the work.
The public will be able to see construction work starting in spring 2024. This major project will enable the MAC to contribute more actively than ever to highlighting, exhibiting, and promoting Québec, Canadian, and international contemporary art. When completed, the building will be modernized, the exhibition spaces optimized, the educational spaces expanded, and visitor accessibility improved.
“I’m thrilled to announce the relaunch of our transformation project,” stated John Zeppetelli, Director and Chief Curator of the MAC. “In coming months, we will take important steps toward welcoming the public to a building that has been transformed into a true showcase for creativity and a destination on its own terms in the heart of Place des Arts. I would like to underline the tireless commitment of all our partners, who have supported us during this period of uncertainty.”
“The MAC transformation project has seen its share of obstacles since it was undertaken,” noted Claudie Imbleau-Chagnon, chair of the MAC board of directors. “I can only salute the tenacity and passion shown by John and the museum’s team for continuing MAC’s mission in a transitional location, and their great creativity in maintaining the museum’s activities in terms of exhibitions, educational activities, and the collection. The board of directors and the entire museum team is taking this next step with renewed energy, kicking off the MAC’s 60th anniversary year on a high note.”
Since its temporary move to Place Ville Marie, the MAC has presented a number of major exhibitions. In fact, the exhibition Velvet Terrorism: Pussy Riot’s Russia is on at Place Ville Marie until March 10, 2024, and Jeremy Shaw’s exhibition Phase Shifting Index can be seen at Fonderie Darling, in Old Montréal, until February 25, 2024. The MAC has also maintained its many activities, including in education.
