3rd edition of our temporary art program: emerging artists on display at REM stations
Urban integration
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Our temporary art program is back for a 3rd edition. After initial collaborations with Concordia University in 2023 and UQAM in 2024, this summer it was Université de Montréal’s turn to host and train a new cohort of artists invited to exhibit their work around the REM facilities.
Students from various universities were able to take the Activité interdisciplinaire en aménagement (Interdisciplinary Activity in Environmental Design) course, given by architect and practical instructor Sylvain Bilodeau. This interuniversity course approaches public art across a variety of disciplines, including visual arts, design, architecture and landscape architecture. Students attend lectures by guest experts, go on focused site visits and create public art.
With support from CDPQ Infra, the works are on display near the Édouard-Montpetit REM station, scheduled to open this fall. The station is connected to the metro station of the same name and is located near the Université de Montréal campus, in the borough of Outremont.
The following works are on display as of today, and will remain in place throughout fall 2025.
Works inspired by public transit
Location: Édouard-Montpetit Station
Work: Logarythme
Photo : Luc Joo Baya
This work is inspired by the former railway tunnel that connected the north and south slopes of Mount Royal. Carved from solid red oak, the low arches and curves of the piece are reminiscent of the underground crossing, made possible again by the new Édouard-Montpetit and McGill REM stations.
By:
- Camille Leins
- Charles Lebrun
- Liliana Kovac
Work: Accalmie
Set on either side of a walkway, this work consists of carved wooden seats covered by colourful fabric that filters sunlight. Pedestrians who use the walkway will discover a relaxing place where they can rest from the constant hustle and bustle of the city. At the same time, they will be able to admire the play of shadows on the ground as well as the other two works nearby.
By:
- Kesso yali Bah
- Salomé Magne
- Midleney Kirdlanda Joseph
- In collaboration with: Kamy Rhéault
Work: Sous-sol : une géologie humaine
This work draws a parallel between different ways of emptying out what lies underground: excavation for the Édouard-Montpetit REM station and excavation that happens when we clean out our basements. Everyday items that could be found at home or at someone else’s home are displayed in a 1955 refrigerator, in full view of passers-by. Together, these objects tell a shared story.
By:
- Claire Labrecque
- Rose Martin
Learn more about the REM art program: