Vidéographe

Vidéographe Montreal: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Discover Vidéographe Montreal

Located in the heart of the Plateau-Mont-Royal district, Vidéographe is a landmark of independent media art in Canada. Since 1971, this artist-run centre has been a driving force in video art, fostering innovation, education, and social engagement through its archives, exhibitions, and public programs. This comprehensive guide draws from official resources and cultural analyses to help you plan your visit, covering everything from practical details to the centre’s historical and cultural significance (Vidéographe official site, Canadian Sky).

Vidéographe: A Monument of Video Art in Montreal

Vidéographe stands as both a historical site and a living hub for media arts. Established in 1971, it has championed experimental and socially engaged video art, supporting emerging and established artists, and documenting major artistic and social movements.

Essential Visiting Information

Hours of Operation

Tuesday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sunday & Monday: Closed
Note: Hours may vary during holidays and special events. Always check the official calendar before your visit.

Tickets & Admission

General Admission: Free
Special Events/Exhibitions: Some may require a nominal fee ($5–$15) and/or advance registration (event calendar).
Guided Tours: Available by appointment in English and French, ideal for groups and educational visits.

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible, with step-free entry and accessible washrooms.
Support is available for visitors with visual or hearing impairments—please contact in advance for accommodations.

Location & Getting There

Address: 4550 Rue Garnier, Suite 101, Montréal, QC H2J 3S7, Canada
Metro: Mont-Royal Station (Orange Line), 10-minute walk
Bus: STM routes 55 and 80 serve the area
Bike: BIXI bike stations nearby (MTL.org)
Parking: Paid street parking (limited during festivals/weekends); nearby lots available

What to Experience at Vidéographe

Exhibition Spaces: Rotating shows of experimental video and media installations
Screenings: Public presentations from a catalog of over 2,300 works, often with artist Q&As
Video Library & Archive: Access to a vast collection for research, curation, and public interest
Workshops & Residencies: Technical workshops, masterclasses, and support for artists at all stages
Artist Talks and Community Events: Regularly scheduled, see events calendar

Historical and Cultural Significance

Origins and Evolution

Founded as part of the National Film Board of Canada’s democratization initiative, Vidéographe quickly became independent in 1973. It provided access to video technology for artists and communities during a period of significant intellectual and social transformation (Vitheque). Over time, it has launched the careers of numerous artists and preserved a “phosphorous archive” of works reflecting both artistic and social change.

Championing Diversity and Innovation

Vidéographe’s programming highlights diverse voices and themes, including gender, race, migration, and environmental issues, reflecting Montreal’s multicultural identity (Rick Andreoli Arts). The centre’s collaborations with local festivals (MUTEK, Festival du nouveau cinéma) and organizations (including daphne) help amplify underrepresented perspectives (MTL.org).

Preservation and Distribution

Vidéographe is a leader in media preservation, safeguarding hundreds of analog works through digitization. Its distribution service ensures that Canadian video art reaches global audiences (Vidéographe catalog).

Visitor Tips

Plan Ahead: Check the official calendar for current programming and reserve spots for events or workshops.
Language: Most programming is bilingual; confirm language details if necessary.
Photography: Permitted for personal use in public areas; always check with staff regarding specific exhibitions.
Duration: Allocate 1–2 hours for your visit.
Combine Your Visit: Explore Plateau-Mont-Royal’s cafes, independent galleries, and nearby Parc La Fontaine or Boulevard Saint-Laurent’s street art (Canadian Sky).
Accessibility: Contact [email protected] for any special requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Saturday, 12:00–18:00; check the calendar for updates.

Q: Are events free?
A: Most exhibitions and screenings are free; some special programs may require a small fee or registration.

Q: Is Vidéographe accessible?
A: Yes, including step-free entry and accessible washrooms.

Q: Are events bilingual?
A: Many are, but check event details on the website.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Generally permitted in public areas, but always ask staff about specific exhibitions.

Q: How can I get there?
A: Easily accessible by metro (Mont-Royal station), bus, bike, or on foot.

Supporting Vidéographe

Support Vidéographe by:

Attending events and exhibitions
Becoming a member for benefits like workshop discounts (membership info)
Donating or purchasing artist editions (support page)

Plan Your Visit and Explore Montreal

Website: www.videographe.org
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 514-521-2116

For a richer experience, pair your visit with other nearby cultural destinations such as the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Place des Arts, and the Plateau’s vibrant neighborhoods. Vidéographe is also featured in major city guides and festivals, including the Montreal International Documentary Festival (RIDM) and Festival du nouveau cinéma.

Download the Audiala app to plan your cultural itinerary, access interactive maps, and receive updates on exhibitions and events.

Why Vidéographe Is Essential to Montreal’s Art Scene

Vidéographe is not only a key institution in Canadian video art but also a vibrant community hub. Its blend of historical archives and contemporary programming offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Montreal’s creative energy, diversity, and spirit of innovation.

Sources

This guide was edited and optimized for clarity, completeness, and searchability. For up-to-date schedules and events, consult the Vidéographe official site.