MAI's intercultural vision

MAI offers a space for exploring new artistic intercultural practices. These practices are based on intercultural relations: exchanges between individuals or groups of defined identities. Such encounters may also be expressed through linking cultural objects or aesthetics borrowed from other cultures.

In the arts, this approach requires a commitment to the notion of dialogue as the very core of the process, and an emphasis on developing the forms of this hybridization. In this perspective, MAI contributes to the development of intercultural artistic practices by offering residencies to professional artists and organizations which provide an opportunity to develop high-quality, mature works, in addition to encounters with the public and collaborations.

Cross-cultural creation not only provides a dynamic field for questioning intercultural relations, but also allows for a reflection on the very essence of art and on the necessary conditions for its renewal. Intercultural artistic practices also lead to fundamental changes in traditional artistic disciplines. Interdisciplinary productions that incorporate mixed artistic approaches and create new and original artistic languages are therefore included in MAI’s regular season, as well as in special activities.

MAI works towards the growth and empowerment of artists and organizations dedicated to intercultural practices in their community. MAI creates strong links with local communities by presenting activities with the support of community artistic or cultural organizations within the Boroughs of Montreal. These events include: visits from professional artists presented at the MAI; dialogues between artists of different practices; coaching of local artistic and cultural activities; technical or promotional support, etc.

- MAI's role and mandate -