How often do you stumble upon a place dedicated to the evolution of design? The Centre de design de l’UQAM stands before us a unique space in Canada. It showcases the historical and current trends in graphic, industrial, and urban design. It also dives into architecture and fashion.
The Centre de design de l’UQAM was founded in 1981. Professors from UQAM’s School of Design initiated it. Since then the Centre has hosted over 400 exhibitions. These exhibitions cater to design professionals students and the general public.
For more than 40 years the Centre de design de l’UQAM has cultivated a design culture. Its influence spans both local and international spheres. Prestigious exhibitions and numerous travelling showcases contribute to this. These travelling exhibits have journeyed to over ten countries. They primarily celebrate Quebec design.
Located in downtown Montreal the Centre de design de l’UQAM sits in the Latin Quarter. It is also in the Quartier des spectacles. The Centre welcomes visitors with free admission. Its exhibition space covers 400 square meters. From September to June it hosts conferences and special events.
In 2024 the Centre de design de l’UQAM celebrated UQAM School of Design’s 50th anniversary. The “Parcours” exhibition highlighted the school’s diversity. It showcased the varied paths of fifty graduates. Their journeys from student works to recent creations were on display. The exhibition spanned generations since 1974. It explored five decades of creative archives. Disciplines like graphic design industrial design architecture urban design and fashion design were featured. Transportation design event design and modern patrimonial studies were also included.
“Parcours” presented posters books drawings plans illustrations models objects prototypes furniture and videos. This collection highlighted design’s importance in everyday life. Patrick Evans director of the Centre de design called it a must-see exhibition. He emphasized how design has mirrored social environmental and technological shifts.
Alain Carle Ying Gao Marie-Josée Lacroix Philippe Lamarre Denis Lapointe Catherine Lebrun and Melissa Mongiat are some of the featured designers. A “tribute wall” recognized nearly 700 faculty members and employees. The exhibition also included a library. It featured over 200 works illustrating research excellence.
The Centre de design de l’UQAM also holds colloquiums. In September 2024 “MUTATIONS: Où va le design?” featured experts discussing design’s future. Themes included social commitment environment demateriality and artificial intelligence.
The Centre de design de l’UQAM offers guided tours for groups at all times. These tours are free but require reservations. This commitment to accessibility extends to its physical space which is wheelchair accessible. It also supports visitors with hearing impairments.
As you leave the Centre de design de l’UQAM consider its lasting impact. It has helped shape design culture in Montreal and beyond. The Centre continues to inspire future generations of designers. It champions the importance of design in our lives.