How does MOMENTA select the curator for the Biennale?

MOMENTA operates on an invitation-based, structured, and collegial selection model. The choice of the exhibition curator is entrusted to a selection committee composed of MOMENTA’s executive director, members of the board of directors' artistic committee, as well as professionals from the Canadian art community external to the Biennale. As in past editions, the curator develops a central theme that shapes the entire biennale. Once appointed, the curator works with the artistic team to define the conceptual framework and select the artists and artworks. Recruitment therefore relies both on a collective institutional decision and on the pursuit of a strong curatorial vision that aligns with MOMENTA’s mission.

How does the artist selection process work?

The artist selection process at MOMENTA is guided by a curatorial vision specific to each edition. This vision is defined by a guest curator, who develops a theme that guides the entire edition. The selection combines several approaches: an open call for submissions to Canadian artists, as well as direct invitations extended by the curator to local and international artists. Proposals are evaluated based on their relevance to the conceptual framework, while taking into account the diversity of practices and perspectives. This hybrid process balances openness and coherence, ensuring an edition that is both rooted in its context and driven by a strong curatorial vision.

How are MOMENTA’s commitments (environmental responsibility, values) put into practice?

MOMENTA implements a comprehensive eco-responsible approach that extends to both its artistic activities and its daily operations. The Biennale team supports artists in developing sustainable works, prioritizes eco-friendly materials, and promotes reuse, rental, and local collaborations in line with the principles of the circular economy. Travel arrangements are designed to reduce the carbon footprint by prioritizing low-impact modes of transportation and itineraries that are accessible to the public. Internally, a socio-ecological transition committee oversees these initiatives through a policy and a concrete action plan. MOMENTA aims to raise awareness among its audiences and surrounding communities by integrating environmental issues into its exhibitions, educational activities, and staff training. Aware of the challenges ahead, the Biennale is committed to a process of continuous improvement aimed at reducing its carbon emissions, better managing its resources, and strengthening its commitments to its partners and audiences.

MOMENTA also promotes accessible cultural mediation to reach diverse audiences and create inclusive spaces. These values are reflected in its committed curatorial choices, which support artists from underrepresented communities, including Indigenous peoples, women, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and people with diverse abilities. MOMENTA also takes a stance of solidarity and political engagement, recognizing and supporting efforts to combat systemic violence and inequality.

All of these initiatives reflect a commitment to integrating artistic practice, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship.

What is the difference between the MOMENTA Contemporary Art Biennial and the MOMENTA Créatif program?

The Biennial is the heart of MOMENTA’s programming. Held every two years, it brings together contemporary art exhibitions centered on a strong theme, guided by a curatorial vision. It showcases artists and presents works that invite reflection on current issues.

MOMENTA Creative is the cultural mediation program that accompanies the Biennale. It offers free activities such as guided tours, workshops, and discussions, designed to help audiences better understand, experience, and engage with the works on display.

With its ongoing public program, MOMENTA Creative aims to make contemporary art accessible to everyone by offering participatory experiences tailored to different audiences.

What does the organization do between editions of the Biennale?

Although the Biennale is a biannual event, the organization carries out its activities continuously over a two-year cycle, alternating between strategic planning and a period of intense activity.

The year preceding an edition is devoted to conceptual foundations. MOMENTA then relies on a small, agile team that ensures the continuity of its mission. This period is marked by the selection of the guest curator and the definition of the theme, followed by a call for proposals and in-depth research into the innovative and socially engaged artistic practices of the moment. The curator’s work takes shape through studio visits and with artists whose practices resonate with the chosen vision. At the same time, the team strengthens its exhibition partnerships and structures the format of the next edition. Communications and philanthropic development play a crucial role here in maintaining the connection with our audiences and ensuring the organization’s sustainability. This is also when the public programming for MOMENTA Créatif is developed.

The year of the Biennale marks the transition to the concrete realization of the event. The team gradually expands to support the production of the exhibitions and the implementation of, among other things, its publication and the MOMENTA Créatif program. Cultural mediation plays a central role, as we develop educational programs and satellite events to create more opportunities for engagement and outreach.

This cycle allows MOMENTA to strengthen its roots in Montreal’s arts community while extending the reach of its programming well beyond the event’s main highlights.

How can I support MOMENTA’s mission?

Your donations make it possible to produce an accessible, engaging, and high-quality contemporary art biennale. They contribute to maintaining free exhibitions and encouraging access to culture for the greatest number of people. They also support the promotion of local artists and the influence of the art scene. The easiest way to support MOMENTA is to click on the following link: SUPPORT MOMENTA

What impact does my donation have?

As a non-profit organization, MOMENTA depends on the support of its community to complement public grants and ensure the sustainability of its activities. Each donation to MOMENTA has a direct and measurable impact on access to contemporary art, cultural mediation, and support for artists. Your contributions help to develop programs that encourage reflection on contemporary social issues. Finally, they make it possible to produce an international-scale biennale and reinforce MOMENTA’s cultural mission over time.

What are the tax benefits related to a donation to MOMENTA?MOMENTA is recognized as a registered charity by the Canada Revenue Agency. Any donation of $20 or more entitles you to a tax receipt, allowing you to benefit from a tax credit of up to 53% of the value of the donation, depending on your situation. Contributions can be made simply and securely via the CanaDon and Zeffy platforms, which manage donations and automatically issue tax receipts. You have the possibility to calculate this via the link CALCULATOR