Italia è moda 2026

ITALIA è MODA Exposition

Italian Fashion Days Worldwide
 

Celebrating the excellence of "Made in Italy" at the

M.A.D. Festival 2026

August 18–23, 2026 

As part of the 26th edition of the M.A.D. Festival (Fashion, Arts, and

Entertainment), Montreal will host the second edition of the "Italian

Fashion Days Worldwide" event, featuring the exhibition Italia è moda

a unique showcase dedicated to the creativity, craftsmanship, and

innovation of "Made in Italy." 

Curated by Clara Tosi Pamphili, the exhibition is designed like a

theatrical stage where garments, accessories, and iconic objects

interact across various moments of daily life: day, evening, and sport.

The showcase features creations from both major fashion houses and

emerging designers, alongside pieces representing Italian leather

goods, footwear, eyewear, jewelry, and cosmetics. 

Highlights include two original costumes from Federico Fellini’s film

Casanova, designed by Danilo Donati and crafted by Sartoria Farani,

that won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design in 1977

Audiovisual content and interactive digital installations further enrich

the experience by showcasing the creative processes and heritage of

the participating Italian companies. 

 

 

The exhibition is being held at the lobby of the

Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth Hotel
900 René-Lévesque Blvd. West, Montreal  

This initiative by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the 

International Cooperation (MAECI) is realized with the support of the

Embassy of Italy in Ottawa, the Consulate General of Italy in Montreal,

the Italian Cultural Institute in Montreal, and the Italian Trade Agency

(ICE) in Montreal. 

 More information here.

PAC 2026: Treaty of the Great Peace 1701

  

The Treaty of the Great Peace of Montréal 
was signed on August 4, 1701

Pointe-à-Callière commemorates the Great Peace of Montréal

August 8 – September 26, 2026

Exactely 325 years ago, Montréal hosted one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in the history of North America.

Today, the Pointe-à-Callière (PAC), Montréal’s archaeology and history complex, is celerating the 325th anniversary of the signing of the Great Peace of Montréal, an exceptional agreement between 38 Indigenous nations and representatives of New France signed in 1701 on the very site of the Pointe-à-Callière Museum.

As part of the commemorations of this pivotal event in the city’s history, the Museum is presenting an interpretive tour that provides further insight into the peace process, marked by exchanges, negotiations, travel, and rituals. It also highlights objects that bear witness to this period of history, including wampum beads and fragments of peace pipes, some of which were discovered at the Museum’s archaeological site. The visit culminates at Fort Ville-Marie with the exhibition of the only known copy of the treaty, an exceptional loan from the Archives nationales d’outre-mer.

The Great Peace of Montréal: A Major Diplomatic Event

To this day, the Great Peace remains one of the most important diplomatic gatherings in North American history! At the time, there were only 1,200 inhabitants in Montréal. But on August 4, 1701, more than 1,300 representatives from 38 Indigenous nations, along with French and Canadian representatives, met at the Callière estate to make peace and bring an end to nearly a century of conflict.

However, the challenge was a considerable one. There was an extraordinary continental dimension to the gathering, given the geographical extent of the participants’ provenance—the entire northeast of the American continent. This historic meeting gave rise to an unprecedented opportunity for discussion, alliance, and negotiation. Together, the participants signed the Treaty of the Great Peace of Montréal.

For the first time the signed document is presented to the public in a vertical position, so that both sides of the four pages are exposed to the visitors.

The document is old and fragile, and for that reason the enclosure where it is displayed is dark. No photo flash is permitted.

The Architects of the Great Peace

This peace agreement is the result of a collective process that rallied a great number of stakeholders: delegates from Indigenous nations, French representatives, and interpreters who facilitated the exchanges between peoples with different languages and cultures.
 
Key figures at this event included, among others, the Wendat chief Kondiaronk, known for his political influence and oratorical skills, whose leadership was crucial both before and during the negotiations. Also present was Louis-Hector de Callière, Governor of Montréal—and later, Governor General of New France—, who played an important diplomatic role throughout the Great Peace process. The meetings with ambassadors that led to the conclusion of this historic treaty notably took place at Callière’s residence.

 

A Major Turning Point in Montréal’s history

In bringing an end to several decades of conflict, the Great Peace established a period of stability lasting approximately 60 years, contributing to the development of trade and reinforcing Montréal’s strategic role on the continent. More than three centuries after its signing, the Great Peace of Montréal remains a benchmark for dialogue, negotiation, and coexistence between peoples. The commemoration of the 325^th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of this treaty, as well as the current relevance of the values it embodies: listening, diplomacy, and the search for lasting peace.

Summer Programming Relating to the Great Peace of Montréal
 
Cultural Activities
On Sundays during the summer, enjoy free activities for the whole family, including the one on August 9^th, which will mark the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples! (Free – Outdoors – 1 pm to 4 pm)
 
18^th Century Public Market
A summer highlight, the 33^rd edition of the Public Market will be themed around the Corn Festival. This impressive re-creation of a market day in Montréal under the French Regime is brought to life by various authentic characters who frequented the market, with numerous activities taking place throughout the event. (Free – Outdoors – Saturday, August 29 – 10 am to 7 pm || Sunday, August 30 – 10 am to 6 pm)

Acknowledgements
The exhibition of the Great Peace treaty is made possible through the exceptional collaboration of the Archives nationales d’outre-mer de France, in partnership with Air Canada Cargo and Hôtel Saint-Sulpice.

All photos @Nadia Slejskova

Click on any image for photo gallery. 

 

For more information visit the Pointe-à-Callière museum website.

www.pacmusee.qc.ca

About
Inaugurated in 1992, on the city’s 350^th anniversary, Pointe-à-Callière is today the largest archaeology museum in Canada and the busiest history museum in Montréal. Rising above a concentrated number of historic and archaeological sites of national significance—including the birthplace of Montréal—, the Museum has a mission to preserve its collections and to further knowledge, while showcasing and fostering an appreciation for Montréal’s archaeological and historical heritage. This mission is carried out through various activities focused on conservation, research, presentation, education, and inclusion, along with community initiatives benefiting both Montrealers and visitors to the city. Pointe-à-Callière, proud partner of the City of Montréal. 

   

Orchestre Métropolitain 2026

ORCHESTRE METROPOLITAINE GRAND CONCERT

FREE CONCERT

Montreal, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

At the foot of Mount Royal

 LIVE BROADCAST ACROSS QUEBEC

  

MMFA 2026: Torlonia Collection - Roman Sculpture

THE TORLONIA COLLECTION
MASTERPIECES OF ROMAN SCULPTURE

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
March 14 – July 19, 2026

The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) was honoured to host The Torlonia Collection: Masterpieces of Roman Sculpture. The final stop on a historic North American tour, this major exhibition brought together 57 lifelike marble sculptures: Roman statues, busts, and sarcophagi; stunning bas-reliefs; mythological creatures; and striking portraits of gods and goddesses, emperors, and their wives. These masterpieces have been shown in Canada for the first time.

The Largest Private Collection of Ancient Roman Marble Sculptures The Torlonia Collection is one of the most important ensembles of ancient Roman sculptures still in existence. Assembled in the 19th century by the Torlonia family, most notably by prince and banker Alessandro Torlonia (1800–1884), who founded the Museo Torlonia in 1876, the collection rivals the Vatican and Capitoline museums in both quality and scope.

A true "collection of collections," it was built thanks to excavations on former imperial estates and through a series of acquisitions of major holdings. It comprises 623 marble works (and a single bronze work) representing Roman sculpture from the Republic through the Empire periods. For much of the past century, access to these works has been limited: they were known primarily through 19th-century publications. After spending decades out of public view, the sculptures have now been restored and are finally being presented in all their splendour.

Alessandro Poma Murialdo, President of Fondazione Torlonia, stated:

"Fondazione Torlonia is excited to be sharing the Torlonia Collection with audiences in Canada for the first time. This exceptional group of ancient sculptures is a testament to the enduring cultural legacy of ancient Rome, as well as the vision and passion of multiple generations of the Torlonia family." 

Carlotta Loverini Botta, Director of Fondazione Torlonia elaborated:

"Fondazione Torlonia is delighted to present in Canada this important ensemble, which covers three centuries of collecting ancient masterpieces. This exhibition reflects not only the history of the artworks themselves, but also the legacies of their many owners: the centuries-old Roman aristocracy, acclaimed restorers, and visionary collectors. It exemplifies the ‘contemporary act' of a long-standing principle underpinning the Torlonia Family's practice of artistic patronage—for through art, people find their destinies to be intertwined, shaping not only what we see, but also who we become." 

Laura Vigo, Curator of Asian art and Archeology at the MMFA and responsible for the exhibition's Montreal presentation, added: 

"Assembled by a lineage of princes, the Torlonia Collection offers a rare opportunity to experience the sensory power these ancient marble sculptures still radiate today. Visitors will have the chance to meet the gaze of Roman emperors such as Marcus Aurelius, Hadrian, and Commodus, and to encounter Hercules, Bacchus, or Cupid as they walk among some of the most celebrated statues of Antiquity." 

This landmark exhibition brings together nearly 60 ancient marbles of breathtaking realism: Roman statues, busts and sarcophagi, bas-reliefs of stunning beauty, mythological creatures, and striking portraits of gods and goddesses, emperors and their consorts. These masterworks are being presented in Canada for the first time.

The Torlonia Collection stands as one of the most important ensembles of ancient Roman sculpture in existence. Assembled by the Torlonia family in the 19th century, most notably by prince and banker Alessandro Torlonia (1800-1884), who established the Museo Torlonia in 1876, the collection rivals the Vatican and Capitoline Museums in both quality and scope. 

The final stop of a historic North American tour, The Torlonia Collection is still on view at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) until July 19, 2026. This exhibition is an exceptional window into the artistic genius of ancient Rome.

All photos @Nadia Slejskova

Click on any image for photo gallery.  

 

Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts website for more information and to purchase your tickets online.

This article's dedicated internet website address.

 

 

  

Conseil des arts de Montréal 2026: Promis

PROMIS

Skawennati’s public art installation transforms the façade of the Conseil des arts de Montréal building all summer long

June 17, 2026 - End of September 2026

The Conseil des arts de Montréal (CAM) invites Montrealers to discover and experience Promise, a temporary public art installation by world-renowned Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) artist Skawennati, which, for the very first time, will transform the façade of the CAM building (located at 1210 Sherbrooke Street East, across from La Fontaine Park).

Vibrantly colourful, this playful, bold and symbolic work is accessible for free all summer long, day and night. All it takes is a smartphone to scan a QR code for an immersive augmented-reality experience of the Three Sisters.

An Art Installation Rooted in Indigenous Heritage

Commissioned by the CAM to celebrate its 70th anniversary, this powerful artistic gesture has been unveiled just days before National Indigenous Peoples Day, celebrated on Sunday, June 21. It also acknowledges the 325th anniversary of the Great Peace Treaty of Montreal, signed on August 4, 1701.

 Nathalie Maillé, directrice générale du CAM, stated: 

“In Montreal, the presence of art is an unbeatable force, deeply embedded in its DNA. For 70 years, it has been at the heart of the CAM’s work. Chosen from our very first competition for a temporary public artwork, the visionary artist Skawennati brilliantly transforms an iconic building in Montreal. We are thus reaffirming what sets our city apart: artistic vitality is expressed all around us, and right here at the Gaston-Miron building, it comes to life every day through the CAM’s initiatives.”

Skawennati, the artist, elaborated:

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to create a public work for an institution as innovative as the CAM, at this grand scale, in this location, the traditional territory of my ancestors. What is truly transformative is to live with Indigenous signage and symbols in the cityscape where they promote the values inherent in them.”  

A work rooted in tradition and growing toward the future

Drawing on Hotinonshón:ni (Iroquois) knowledge, Promise re-imagines the Three Sisters—beloved personifications of corn, beans, and squash—as contemporary superheroes whose mission is to re-instill into the values of sustainability, interdependence, and gratitude throughout the city and the world.

The vivid patterns wrapped around the building’s columns are inspired by the Three Ssiter's seeds, while an augmented-reality experience, accessible via a QR code, brings the heroines to life through 3D animation, accompanied by an original song blending Kanien’kéha, French, and English.

Sponsored by daphne, a non-profit Indigenous artist-run centre (Centre d'art daphne), this playful installation invites all citizens to contemplate and remember the roots of the city and to envision a shared future grounded in Indigenous values.

Artist Skawennati

Skawennati, a trailblazer in Indigenous digital art

A Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) artist based in Montreal, Skawennati has been developing a practice at the intersection of visual and digital arts for over two decades, blending installations, technologies, sculptures, textiles, and interactive environments to explore memory, identity, and the future.

Centered around the universe of the Three Sisters, the artist is developing a multilayered narrative. She first introduced them as superheroes in Words Before All Else, in 2022, followed by Welcome to the Garden, presented in 2024 at Gray Area in San Francisco. In 2025, the trio visited New York as part of ENCODED: Change the Story, Change the Future at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where Skawennati’s augmented reality work is surreptitiously superimposed onto the museum’s facade. There, she offers a critical reinterpretation of dominant narratives, which is emblematic of her approach.

With Promise, the artist adds a new chapter, affirming a strong connection to the territory; the accompanying song is punctuated with references to the Maison du CAM, the City of Montreal/Tiohtià:ke/Mooniyang, and nearby Atateken Street.

Rooted in Indigenous knowledge yet future-oriented, her work has been presented on the local and international scene, notably at the MAC, the Smithsonian, the Venice Biennale, and the Seoul Art & Tech Festival. In May 2025, the National Gallery of Canada presented Welcome to Dreamhouse, major solo exhibition of her work, tracing 25 years of artistic practice.

Skawennati is co-founder and co-director of AbTeC at Concordia University, a research-creation studio that co-produces digital art projects.

About the Conseil des arts de Montréal

Founded in 1956, the Conseil des arts de Montréal supports artistic innovation and creative expression in all their diversity by offering various forms of support to promote Montreal-based artists and organizations involved in creation, production, and presentation. For 70 years, it has played a unique role as a catalyst and has helped make Montreal a vibrant cultural metropolis, recognized here and abroad for its artistic vitality.

About the Gaston-Miron Building

The Gaston-Miron Building, located at 1210 Sherbrooke Street East across from La Fontaine Park, has been home to the Conseil des arts de Montréal since 2009. Formerly the Montreal Central Library, built between 1914 and 1917 by architect Eugène Payette, this iconic building stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Completely renovated while preserving its original features—including its spectacular atrium topped by a glass ceiling—the building is now a vibrant space dedicated to the creation, support, and promotion of the arts, providing the artistic community with rehearsal and exhibition spaces. At its entrance stands Yannick Pouliot’s work Dialogue (2017), an aluminum sculpture composed of fragments inspired by the building’s architecture.  

 

This article's dedicated internet address.

All images in this article courtesy of the Conseil des arts de Montréal

Artwork credits

Commissioned by the Conseil des arts de Montréal    

Sponsored by daphne

Co-produced by AbTeC

Concept and design: Skawennati

Production manager: Nancy Townsend

Production supervisor: Jason Edward Lewis

Graphic design: Tarcisio Cataldi et Julia Fortin 

Lighting design: cr34te

Printing: Turgeon

Augmented reality specialist: Meg Summers

3D modelling and animation: Maxime Perreault

3D Texturing: Jiangai Gao

Lyrics: Skawennati

Recording and Sound Design: Shawn Mullen

Performers: Skanaie:’a Deer as Osahè:ta’, Kanikatsistha Hill as Ó:nenhste, and Ieronhienhawi Mccomber as Onon’ónsera

Recording Studio: Milieux Institute for Arts, Culture and Technology