Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

Integration project to create a sense of connection between children in regular 4th garde classes and those who have recently arrived in one of Montreal’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods. It consists of museum tours, creative workshops and the creation of a short play inspired by the artworks. It helps newly arrived children to express themselves, introduce them to Quebec culture and forge relationships.

The art therapy research project explores the "existential migration" experienced by people who have left voluntarily their home country and how important is artistic expression in such life journeys. It involves: visits and workshops leading to the construction of a life narrative are conducted, as well as the creation of works using motifs drawn from maps; exhibiting such meaningful works in an MMFA presentation. Help newly arrived to express themselves, translating as needed to facilitate the creative process.

The project Seeds of Hope aims to heighten awareness among visitors about suicide and its impact on families and communities through the presentation of masks made by people affected by it. Tours focused on themes of resilience and the expression of feelings, as well as creative workshops supervised by art therapists, provide an opportunity for project participants to break through the isolation and veil of silence too often surrounding suicide. This project involved a collective of individuals from various different communities coming together to share, express, and explore the taboo subject of suicide. In breaking the silence, these participants united in using the arts to express suffering but also to celebrate resilience, strength, and hope.

Sharing the Museum – Sharing the Douglas is an art therapy program designed for people with eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia).
Once every six weeks for six months, participants come for an encounter with art and take part in a creative workshop. In the safe and affirmative setting of the Museum, they can break through their isolation, develop a feeling of belonging within their community, and build a positive body image. The program explores the challenges and best practices of working with people undergoing treatment for eating disorders.

The MMFA’s art therapy program offers creative workshops aimed at ending the isolation of teenagers and young adults living with speech disorders or sensory impairments, such as dysphasia, deafness and auditory processing disorders (APD). Led by an art therapist and IRD staff, such social and cultural activities are intended to facilitate the development of young people’s communication skills, boost their self-esteem and foster socialization.