EN
Fragments of a City in Motion
This workshop was inspired by, and built around, the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing). It invited participants to explore the evolving urban landscape of Place Ville Marie in Montreal through a meditative walk guided by the senses. While moving through public spaces, participants were encouraged to walk with attention rather than intention, opening themselves to often-invisible details: textures, sounds, lights, smells, and sensations. Each participant collected these elements as traces—notes, drawings, audio recordings, rubbings, clay impressions, etc.—which were then used to create a sensitive and collective mapping of the explored territory. An immersive experience that invites slowing down and taking time to be present in the midst of the urban commotion.
This workshop was conducted in collaboration with the Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal, as part of MOMENTA Biennale d’art contemporain, drawing from the exhibition Nuna Aliannaittuq by artist Maureen Gruben.
I would like to warmly thank the mediation teams at the MAC and MOMENTA for their support and guidance throughout this workshop.
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Creative and reflective workshop developed in collaboration with the Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal as part of MOMENTA 2025, inspired by Nuna Aliannaittuq, an exhibition by artist Maureen Gruben.
Photos: Michael Patten