Salon des métiers d'art du Québec_ 68th edition
December 12 – 22, 2024
Salon des métiers d'art du Québec opened its doors at Palais des congrès de Montréal
Festivities kicked off with the announcement of a partnership with Les Produits du Québec
The 68th edition of Salon des métiers d'art du Québec de Montréal (SMAQ), is presented by TVA. It is held at Palais des congrès de Montréal until December 22nd Nearly 200 exhibitors welcoms visitors for this exciting holiday event, under the theme "Savoir-faire / Faire-savoir". This kickoff is also an opportunity to unveil a historic partnership between Les Produits du Québec and the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec (CMAQ), highlighting their shared commitment to the talent of local artisans.
A historic partnership
Les Produits du Québec, a government-supported organization dedicated to recognizing and promoting local products, and the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec have joined forces for a significant new initiative. Thanks to a simplified membership process, CMAQ members can now obtain the "Fabriqué au Québec" certification mark in addition to the CMAQ stamp. This will provide them with access to two valuable certification marks, designed to support their marketing efforts and showcasing their local expertise.
The partnership is implemented in two phases. The initial phase, which ran from October to December 2024, exclusively benefits Salon des métiers d'art exhibitors. The second phase, beginning in April 2025, will extend access to all CMAQ members.
Christopher Skeete, Minister-Delegate for the Economy and Minister responsible for the Fight against Racism in the Québec Government announced:
"The objective of this collaboration is to streamline the daily operations of our artisans by providing them with a more prominent platform through this certification, which will serve as a crucial point of reference for consumers seeking authentic, locally-sourced products. It is our hope that this will encourage local purchasing and enable Québec know-how to shine like never before."
Christopher Skeete, Minister-Delegate for the Economy and Minister responsible for the Fight against Racism in the Québec Government announced:
"The objective of this collaboration is to streamline the daily operations of our artisans by providing them with a more prominent platform through this certification, which will serve as a crucial point of reference for consumers seeking authentic, locally-sourced products. It is our hope that this will encourage local purchasing and enable Québec know-how to shine like never before."
Marc Douesnard, Chairman of the Board of the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec, stated :
"This announcement, which coincides with the opening of the Salon, provides an optimistic outlook for the future. Our mission is to celebrate local producers and artisans and to highlight their essential contribution to our history. By forming this partnership, CMAQ and Les Produits du Québec are combining their respective missions to create a more robust and beneficial impact on society."
Elfi Morin, General Manager of Les Produits du Québec, added:
"This partnership represents a significant advancement in our mission to streamline consumer choice for those seeking Québec-made non-food products. By uniting with the Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec, we are not only bolstering our backing for local artisans but also facilitating the identification of local products thanks to this dual seal. In this way, we are offering Quebecers transparent benchmarks that inspire consumption aligned with their values."
The Salon des métiers d'art offers an innovative and distinctive showcase
This year, Salon des métiers d'art du Québec is undergoing a transformation, welcoming numerous emerging talents alongside established artisans from previous editions.
SMAQ spokespersons, host and comedian Christian Bégin and journalist and fashion columnist Lolitta Dandoy are back to highlight the talent and passion of local creators. They will be joined by invaluable ambassadors of the arts and crafts: ceramist Marilyn Champagne of Atelier Champagne, chocolatier Vincent Coja of Allo Simonne, glass artist Karine Foisy of Veille sur toi and leatherworker Philippe Tissier of Cuir Philamain.
Christian Bégin, spokesperson for the Salon des métiers d'art de Montréal for the past seven years, stated:
"This time of year always inspires a sense of excitement. Each visit to the Salon des métiers d'art reinforces my appreciation for locally produced goods and the skill of Québec artisans. We look forward to welcoming you at this year's event and to offering you a program that will exceed your expectations.”
Lolitta Dandoy views SMAQ as an ideal venue for adopting eco-responsible fashion, a value she holds in high regard:
"Salon des Métiers d'Art is an optimal venue for combining style and environmental responsibility. It's a unique opportunity to discover designers who share this vision and to engage in more responsible consumption by supporting artisans who favor sustainable practices."
A variety of tastes
The Flavours pavilion: A premium destination for discerning food enthusiasts, our gourmet space showcases the exceptional talents of our region's craftspeople, presented by the very individuals who cultivate, transform and elevate these products to their highest potential.
In the zone dedicated to architecture and heritage, visitors have the opportunity to meet tradespeople such as stonecutters, blacksmiths, and other specialized artisans, who will be on hand to demonstrate their expertise in restoration and conservation.
For the second year in a row, the Salon will be showcasing Artisans Récupérateurs, passionate craftspeople who transform, reinvent and sublimate the existing to create unique, sustainable pieces.
Three exhibitions
The Conseil des métiers d'art du Québec (CMAQ) presents a series of exhibitions showcasing the exceptional talent of professional craftspeople each year. This year's exhibition will feature glasswork.
The Coast to Coast to Coast exhibition, organized in collaboration with the Canadian Crafts Federation and curated by artist Michael Patten, brings together pieces selected by the craft councils of each province and territory. These pieces illustrate the dialogue, richness, and diversity of craft across Canada.
The CMAQ is pleased to present the Prix Hommage 2024 to Michèle Lapointe, glass artist and expert in her field. Michèle Lapointe is a renowned glass artist and ambassador of her expertise, renowned throughout Québec and internationally. She is known for her innovative techniques and unique creations, as well as for her involvement with Espace VERRE, a pioneering studio-school in the field. A prominent figure in the field of contemporary art glass, Ms. Lapointe was named Companion of the Ordre des arts et des lettres du Québec in 2023. She stands out through the originality and complexity of her work. Visitors to the Salon will gain insight into her pioneering work in the integration of photography with glass and electronic support, which has marked the evolution of this art form.
The Salon des métiers d'art du Québec is pleased to present a selection of pieces from the ÉCLOSION exhibition, an inspiring selection of works from the exhibition recently presented at the Art Mûr gallery in collaboration with the CMAQ and Montréal’s fine craft schools. These curated works showcase the innovative and creative work of the next generation of artisans, offering visitors a unique insight into the latest research, innovations and developments in the field.
“COUP DE CŒUR DU PUBLIC" competition
Inaugurated at Plein Art Québec (PAQ 2024), this new competition invites attendees to cast their votes for their favourite artisan over the course of the 10-day event.
Participants will be entered into a draw for a chance to win a number of prizes, including an overnight stay at Montréal's renowned Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, a gift card to MVT+, a massage therapy clinic, and a "2 concerts" discovery package for the forthcoming edition of the FIKA(S) Festival.
A gift-wrappping station to benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation
This year, entrust your purchases to the volunteers of Make-A-Wish Canada, who will take care of wrapping your gifts.
Make-A-Wish Canada works with communities across the country to help seriously ill children realize their most heartfelt wishes.
An invitation to explore their eco-responsible approach, their innovative techniques and their vision of circular creation.
All Photos @ Nadia Slejskova
For more information in this years show, visit the Salon des métiers d’art de Montréal website.
