Lea GagnonBrush up on culture at the best art galleries in Montreal
There’s something timeless about wandering through a gallery that never gets old for us. Maybe it’s the way art can make you see the world differently or simply the excuse to slow down and get lost in creativity.
Montreal takes that experience to another level. Every gallery here feels like it’s brimming with personality and stories waiting to be discovered.
From hidden gems tucked away in quiet streets to grand spaces showcasing world-renowned collections, we’ve spent hours exploring them all – and every visit leaves us with something new.
If you’re anything like us and can’t resist diving into the art scene, you’re in for a treat.
La Guilde
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Location: 1356 Sherbrooke St W
Contact: +1 514-849-6091
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: Free
Ever stumbled upon a hidden gem that just oozes cool? That’s exactly the vibe at La Guilde, a Montreal art haven that’s been around since 1906.
With over a century of celebrating Canadian art, this place truly stands out. It places a special focus on the breathtaking works of Inuit and First Nations artists.
And here’s the kicker: they’re not just about the big names. La Guilde shines a spotlight on emerging artists too. This gives you the chance to discover fresh talent (and maybe even snag a piece before they hit the big time!).
So, if you’re in Montreal and your inner art lover needs a fix, skip the tourist spots and head straight to La Guilde. Trust us, your Instagram feed will thank you.
| Pro Tip: Snag a unique souvenir at their on-site boutique! It’s packed with handcrafted jewellery, pottery, and textiles made by Canadian artists. |
Fondation PHI pour l’art contemporain
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Location: 451 Rue Saint-Jean
Contact: +1 514-849-3742
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: Free
Fondation PHI pour l’art contemporain is your one-way ticket to the coolest contemporary art in Montreal.
This place is housed in these gorgeous restored heritage buildings in Old Montreal. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to whip out your phone and snap pics for days (and trust us, you will).
But here’s what really sets them apart: they’re all about immersive experiences. We’re talking about mind-blowing exhibitions that blur the lines between art, technology, and performance.
Fondation PHI pour l’art contemporain also hosts video installations, interactive works, and even pieces by big names like Yoko Ono and Olafur Eliasson. Basically, every visit is a chance to explore a different perspective.
| Pro Tip: Unlock the full story behind the art by hopping on one of their guided tours. You’ll leave feeling like an art expert (and have some amazing stories to tell). |
Musée des métiers d’art du Québec
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Location: 615 Sainte Croix Ave, Saint-Laurent
Contact: +1 514-747-7367
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Pricing: Starts at $13
The Musée des métiers d’art du Québec (MUMAQ) is a hidden gem in Montreal. It’s all about celebrating the incredible craftsmanship of Quebec artisans. And trust us, these folks know how to create some stunning pieces.
The coolest part is that the gallery isn’t stuck in some boring old building. They’ve taken over a neo-Gothic church, and it adds this whole other layer of beauty and history to the experience.
Their permanent exhibition takes you on a journey through time. It showcases how Quebec crafts have evolved over the centuries.
You’ll see everything from historical artefacts to contemporary works. This gives you a real appreciation for the skill and artistry involved.
| Pro Tip: Get your hands dirty (in the best way possible) by signing up for one of their creative workshops. |
Shayne Gallery
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Location: 5471 Royalmount Ave.
Contact: +1 514-739-1701
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Pricing: Free
Shayne Gallery has been a fixture in the city’s art scene since 1972. They’ve got this amazing knack for bringing together a super diverse collection that appeals to everyone. This includes seasoned collectors and those of us just starting our art journey.
One of the things we love most about Shayne Gallery is its commitment to showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums. You’ll find everything from stunning blown glass and sculptures to intricate handmade jewellery.
They represent artists from all over the world, too. With this, you’re guaranteed to discover something new and exciting every time you visit.
And let’s talk about their space – it’s this unique Soho-style loft in Mount Royal that was way ahead of its time when it opened. The setting perfectly complements the art, creating a really inviting atmosphere.
| Pro Tip: Stay in the loop by signing up for their newsletter! You’ll get updates on new exhibitions, artist spotlights, and maybe even some exclusive deals. |
Heffel Gallery
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Location: 1840 Sherbrooke St W
Contact: +1 514-939-6505
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Pricing: Free
You’ll find Heffel Gallery nestled in the heart of Montreal’s art scene. It’s a true gem for anyone who appreciates Canadian art. This place has also earned a reputation for its incredible collection and its prominent role as a leading fine art auction house.
Inside the gallery, you’ll discover a treasure trove of works by some of Canada’s most celebrated artists. It includes iconic pieces by the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, Jean-Paul Riopelle, and the list goes on.
The gallery expertly curates both historical and contemporary pieces. It offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of Canada’s artistic heritage.
What truly sets Heffel apart is its unique integration with the art market. As a renowned auction house, they bring a dynamic energy to the space. This allows you to witness firsthand the excitement and passion that surrounds Canadian art.
| Pro Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of their auction previews. It’s a chance to get a sneak peek at the incredible pieces going up for sale. You might even spot a rare gem that’s not usually on display. |
