MAI (Montréal, arts interculturels)

Since its inception, now nearly 17 years ago, the MAI (Montréal, arts interculturels) has become an important centre for culturally diverse artistic expression in Montreal. Having multiple roles, the MAI is, first and foremost, a:

Presenter: the programming and dissemination of contemporary intercultural art; presenting works by artists, collectives and companies of diverse cultural backgrounds; providing a space where artists with an intercultural practice can develop and present their work in professional conditions;

Facilitator: to scratch beneath the skin of a performance or exhibition – developing and organising activities (public rehearsals, workshops, information sessions, post show discussions, conferences and panel discussions, etc.) in conjunction with its annual programming (Public+ Series) that encourage communication between artists, audiences and the innumerable cultural communities with whom the MAI is engaged, with the objective of ultimately fostering an appreciation for and an understanding of artist practices rooted in non-western artistic traditions;

Mentor: aiding artists of diverse cultural and artistic backgrounds in their professional career development; offering assistance to artists, companies and cultural organisations from cultural communities in Montreal in regards to their artistic development and achievement of their artistic and cultural objectives (finances, production, logistics, and promotion, among others (both short and long term mentoring);

Centre: A nucleus of creative/social interaction. An incubator for exchange, reflection and research, a space for dialogue and interchange between cultures and for stimulating collaborations between artists, partners, cultural organizations and the general public;

The only cultural organization within Montréal and Canada invested with a mandate explicitly focused on the promotion of intercultural art; the MAI presents original works with cultural bonds throughout the globe and supports the creation, production, dissemination and outreach of intercultural arts for a diversified audience.

The MAI is home to intercultural arts. It is a place where cross-cultural artistic expression and the mixing of genres and styles ultimately lead to the creation of experimental, hybrid and innovative and original art forms.