Was it fate or foresight that led to the creation of the Pavillon Judith-Jasmin? This building stands as a testament to Montreal’s architectural evolution. It blends history and modernity.
The Pavillon Judith-Jasmin is central to the UQAM campus. It is named after Judith Jasmin. She was a pioneering journalist in Quebec.
This pavilion has a unique challenge. It integrates the bell tower and transept of the former Église Saint-Jacques. The church is a classified historical monument. Imagine the architectural puzzle. The metro station beneath and underground galleries added complexity.
Construction of the Pavillon Judith-Jasmin occurred from 1976 to 1979. Dimitri Dimakopoulos and Associates collaborated with Jodoin Lamarre Pratte et Associés on the design. Louis Donolo Inc was the constructor.
The site has a history of fires. A fire destroyed religious buildings in 1822. Another fire damaged the Church of Saint-Jacques in 1933. The church was rebuilt. It was demolished in 1975 to make way for UQAM’s pavilion.
Architects incorporated the church’s bell tower and transept into the new design. Passageways now occupy the nave and former transept site. Parabolic arches mimic the old church’s structure. They provide an exterior link. Light wells illuminate surviving architectural features.
The Pavillon Judith-Jasmin is UQAM’s nerve center. It houses the Galerie de l’UQAM. It also includes the Salle Marie-Gérin-Lajoie. You will also find the Alfred-Laliberté studio theater there. Also located there is the general information kiosk P’tit Café Jasmin. Coop UQAM, and the Department of Audiovisual Communications are located in the building too. The Hall of Wood contains works from the old sacristy.
Furthermore, the Pavillon Judith-Jasmin houses the Faculty of Arts. The Faculty of Communication is also based here. In addition to that, it is home to the School of Visual and Media Arts. The School of Theatre and the School of Media are also situated within. Research units and student associations thrive within its walls.
Judith Jasmin was born in Terrebonne in 1916. She was an actress turned award-winning journalist. She worked for Radio-Canada. In 1966, she became Radio-Canada’s United Nations correspondent. Later, she was their Washington correspondent.
The Pavillon Judith-Jasmin uses materials beyond plain concrete. It still embodies Brutalist aesthetics. The exterior features brick. The interior is largely concrete.
The Pavillon Judith-Jasmin stands as a link to the past. It also serves as a hub for education and culture. Its walls echo with the stories of Judith Jasmin. They resonate with the aspirations of countless students. The Pavillon Judith-Jasmin represents Montreal’s dynamic spirit.