The firth place of Quartier Éphémère

Quartier Éphémère's mandate is to support artists; help with production; promote and distribute the works of young artists in the visual arts.
Quartier Éphémère has successfully developed an innovative concept, that of the temporary recycling of vacant buildings for artists to use. The principle is simple and original: after an understanding betweeen a private or public landlord has been established, Quartier Éphémère takes charge of the building for a pre-determinated period and refurbishes it according to the needs of the artists. Therefore, in exchange for the use of the building, Quartier Éphémère assures its' upkeep while maintening the real estate value. This formula has the double advantage of permitting a cultural organisation to reap the benefits of an inexpensive space and aids the proprietor in maintaining his property while waiting for a more economically favourable project.
The nature of Quartier Éphémère is to merge studios, exposition gallery, production office, storage, technical workshops and media services under one roof. The varied energies exchanged by the occupants and the visitors intersect in an association that provides a logistic framework to the artists who are engaged through public critique, advice, moral and technical support.
The association contributes to the recognition of the artists it supports in the professional realm. The association is involved in promoting artists at both the national and international levels. Exchange programs are indispensible to the dynamics of the organisation; foreign artists being recieved by Quartier Éphémère; exhibits and residency are provided to Canadian artists abroad on a regular basis. By the origin of the concept, the exchanges with Usines Éphémères structure in France are privileged and encouraged by the french government. Exchanges with others states and others countries are in prospect.
Through the organisation and production of events, diversification of media and presentation of artists with a strong sense of direction, the association caters to a varied public. While the visual arts remain the main focus, the center is equally attentive to other forms of expression such as concerts, shows, performances and films.
The work that Quartier Éphémère has done for emerging artists has been achieved without usual institutional support. This is an organisation which values its’ autonomy and is mostely financed through private funding sources.
Quartier Éphémère is highly involved in defining contemporary urban cultural centers and their current dilemnas. On the basis of recycling industrial spaces to the benefit of young artists, the association contributes to the revitalization of neglected neighbourhoods and participates in the protection of our industrial heritage.

Quartier Éphémère Selected Chronology

1993

the association’s constitution is created

1994

opening of Quartier Éphémère, 16 rue Prince État des Lieux: Mathieu Beauséjour (M.B)