The Art of Joy
February 17–May 14, 2017
Manif d’art 8 – The Quebec City Biennial, produced in collaboration with the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), will be storming the city for the next few weeks! The MNBAQ displays a multitude of exclusive works—created under the banner of The Art of Joy—in a series of interrelated exhibitions from February 17 to May 14, 2017.
“Today more than ever, joy is a battle, a weapon to protect ourselves from devastating events. Here in Quebec City, for three months, the exhibited works will affirm this notion of joy. Jubilant, troubling, radiant, amusing, caustic and poetic—all will embody this force, since the essence of art is joy.” These words, spoken by the event’s curator Alexia Fabre several months ago with regard to theme of The Art of Joy, take on even more significance in today’s Quebec, reminding us how art can serve as a catalyst and balm in times of uncertainty or upheaval.
Central exhibition site of Manif d’art 8
For the first time in the history of the Biennial, the central exhibition will unfold in an institutional setting. Manif d’art 8 will grace the four temporary exhibition galleries of the Pierre Lassonde Pavilion of the MNBAQ, an international jewel of international standing, making the Biennial even more alluring! The works of some 15 artists—installations, video works, canvases and even a performance—will be presented within its walls. This exhibition will feature over 15 artists, including BGL, Annette Messager, Carlos Amorales and Christian Boltanski. Guided tours will be offered, and family-oriented activities and exhibitions will also be on the program. Discover the full program of educational and cultural activites.
Window displays at Simons
The event’s Official Presenter, La Maison Simons, will exhibit the creations of nine artists in as many display windows at their three branches in Quebec City from February 2 to April 16. Each in their own way, these works approach the theme of Manif 8—The Art of Joy—as the expression of a wish, desire or dream. Each of these nine showcases represent quests for beauty, happiness and well-being—at times somewhat naïve perhaps, but nonetheless filled with hope and sincerity.
Launch of Manif d’art 8 - The Quebec City Biennial catalogue at the end of March
On March 29, 2017, Manid d’art and the MNBAQ are launching of the 8th catalogue of the Quebec City Biennial. The Art of Joy catalogue comprises theoretical texts on joy by renowned authors from Quebec and abroad. It constitutes a remarkable critical tool for a wide range of artists, academics, critics and enthusiasts of art. The texts are accompanied by colour portfolio of the participating artists selected by curator Alexia Fabre and the artistic committee made up of Claude Bélanger, Bernard Lamarche, and Anne-Sophie Blanchet.
About Manif d’art 8
One of Canada’s major contemporary art biennials, Manif d’art 8 - The Quebec City Biennial will present, from February 17 to May 14, 2017, the work of over 100 artists from all disciplines. In addition to its exhibitions, the event will offer a constellation of activities based on the theme of The Art of Joy, as defined by curator Alexia Fabre. A total of 35 cultural organizations have helped to make this international festival an unmissable event for novices and specialists alike. Manif d’art 8–Quebec City Biennial is produced in collaboration with the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec.
Art of Joy pin
To attend Manif d’art 8, all you need is a pin, which gives you access to the full range of exhibitions, activities and discounts.
Manif d’art – The Quebec City Biennial- 600, côte d’Abraham, Québec (Québec)
T 418 524 1917 / info [at] manifdart.org
