Top Montreal Art Exhibitions | October 14-17, 2026

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  1. Chiharu Shiota: The Soul Trembles
    No. 1

    Chiharu Shiota: The Soul Trembles — Montreal Museum of Fine Arts

    1380 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal

    Dates: On view through February 14, 2027

    Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota transforms ordinary objects and architectural spaces into intricate, emotionally charged environments woven from thread. This major exhibition surveys more than three decades of her artistic practice.

    Why go? For the kind of immersive art that makes you stop, look up and lose track of time.

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  2. An Assembly for the Cosmos
    No. 2

    An Assembly for the Cosmos — Galerie de l'UQAM

    1400 rue Berri, Montreal

    Dates: September 4 – October 17, 2026

    This collective exhibition brings together artists including Skawennati, Tabita Rezaire and Suzanne Treister to explore planetary relationships, technology and alternative ways of understanding the cosmos.

    Why go? A thought-provoking artistic journey exploring the universe through Indigenous wisdom, technology, and contemporary art.

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  3. artch Festival 2026 — Emerging Artists Opening
    No. 3

    artch Festival 2026 — Emerging Artists Opening — Espace Transmission

    5435 avenue des Érables, Montreal

    Dates: Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6–11 PM

    Meet the next generation of Montreal artists at the official artch festival opening. The evening showcases 20 emerging artists, with live performances and music.

    Why go? Discover Montreal's next generation of artistic talent.

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  4. Aline Setton — Où, Where, Onde
    No. 4

    Aline Setton — Où, Where, Onde — Duran Contemporain

    372 rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, suite 527

    Dates: October 8–31, 2026

    Aline Setton's paintings explore the space between architecture, memory and imagination. Walls, windows and landscapes become fragmented, dreamlike compositions where familiar places suddenly feel mysterious.

    Why go? A poetic exploration of identity, belonging, and the meaning of place through contemporary art.

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  5. Patrice Désilets — Les amoureux sont seuls au monde
    No. 5

    Patrice Désilets — Les amoureux sont seuls au monde — Galerie Beauchamp

    66 rue Saint-Paul Ouest, Old Montreal

    Dates: October 15–21, 2026

    The Montreal artist presents a new collection of paintings featuring his signature couples in more realistic landscapes, from coastal scenes to open countryside. His work explores companionship, intimacy and human connection through expressive, colourful compositions.

    Why go? An intimate exploration of romance, friendship, and human connection through expressive paintings.

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  6. Chantal Quidoz
    No. 6

    Chantal Quidoz — Atelier-Galerie 2112

    2112 Atateken Street, Montreal

    Dates: Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6–9 PM

    Chantal Quidoz unveils 12 vibrant abstract paintings blending fiery colours, bold expression, and fashion-inspired creativity.

    Why go? A vibrant fusion of fashion, bold abstraction, and artistic flair.

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  7. Parallelism & Paradoxes — Jou Lee & Donald Andrus
    No. 7

    Parallelism & Paradoxes — Jou Lee & Donald Andrus — Galerie L'Onyx

    6400 Monk Boulevard, Montreal

    Dates: Friday, October 16, 2026, 6–8 PM

    Jou Lee and Donald Andrus explore the relationship between visible reality and the subconscious through contrasting artistic styles, mixed media, and experimental techniques. Presented as part of Montreal's PICTURA Painting Triennial.

    Why go? Two distinct artistic visions exploring the boundaries between perception and imagination.

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  8. Lux Æterna — Ode to Light
    No. 8

    Lux Æterna — Ode to Light — Hôtel SonoLux

    225 Saint-Jacques Street, Montreal

    Dates: Friday, October 16, 2026, 6 PM

    Presented as part of ELEKTRA's Digital Art Biennial, this immersive exhibition explores light through digital installations and performances by Sabrina Ratté, Baron Lanteigne, Matthew Biederman, and other artists.

    Why go? An immersive fusion of light, technology, and contemporary art.

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  9. F(R)ICTION: Art & Games — ELEKTRA Biennale 2026
    No. 9

    F(R)ICTION: Art & Games — ELEKTRA Biennale 2026 — Arsenal

    2020 William Street, Montreal

    Dates: October 15 - November 15, 2026

    ELEKTRA's 8th Biennale transforms video games into contemporary art, showcasing 35 experimental game-based artworks by an international lineup of creators. Discover interactive installations, unconventional gaming experiences, and the creative intersection of art and technology.

    Why go? Play, explore, and experience video games as an exciting new form of contemporary art.

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  10. Lignes de rencontres
    No. 10

    Lignes de rencontres — Galerie Éclat

    372 Sainte-Catherine Street West, Suite 521, Montreal

    Dates: Thursday, October 15, 2026, 5–8:30 PM

    Two artists explore the expressive power of lines through intricate ink drawings and architectural compositions, revealing unexpected connections between human experience, space, and imagination.

    Why go? Discover two distinctive artistic visions where drawing meets architecture.

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Montreal Art Exhibitions FAQs

Where can I find Montreal art exhibitions happening this weekend?

Best Kept MTL updates its Montreal Art Exhibitions guide every Friday, highlighting gallery openings, contemporary art exhibitions, and cultural events happening throughout the weekend and beyond, complete with dates, locations, and exhibition details.

Are art exhibitions and vernissages in Montreal free to attend?

Many Montreal art exhibitions and gallery openings are free, including vernissages where visitors can meet artists and discover new works. Some exhibitions require tickets or advance reservations. Check Best Kept MTL's weekly art guide for upcoming events.

What is a vernissage, and can anyone attend one in Montreal?

A vernissage is an exhibition opening where visitors can discover artwork, meet artists, and connect with Montreal's creative community. Most are open to the public, although some require an RSVP or invitation.

Where are the best neighbourhoods for contemporary art galleries in Montreal?

Montreal's leading art districts include the Plateau-Mont-Royal, Mile End, Old Montreal, and downtown. These neighbourhoods feature independent galleries, artist-run spaces, and contemporary art exhibitions showcasing local and international talent.

Which Montreal art galleries feature emerging and contemporary artists?

Montreal's contemporary art scene thrives in galleries across Mile End, Plateau-Mont-Royal, and Old Montreal. Best Kept MTL's weekly Montreal Art Exhibitions guide highlights emerging artists, independent galleries, and must-see contemporary art exhibitions, with updated dates, locations, and event details every Wednesday.