Racines et horizons

VSMPE is Montreal’s most ethnically diverse borough, encompassing about 75 different communities, including francophone, Italian, Greek, East Indian, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Maghrebi, and Haitian populations.

Consequently, MU wanted to create a mural in VSMPE about cultural exchange. The mural is located on the four exterior walls of the chalet in Parc Saint-Damase, which is a daily meeting place for Italian seniors in the neighbourhood. This project is part of a long term partnership with the borough, which views mural art as an important tool for revitalization and beautification. Six murals have been created by MU in VSMPE since 2007.

The artist Mateo was selected to undertake the design and execution of the mural. He chose to connect the neighbourhood’s diversity with a clever composition of traditional motifs which correspond to each of the communities. Each motif is derived from extensive research into ceramics, textiles and traditional ornaments from each community.

Ilana Pichon assisted the artist during the execution of the project.