Montreal’s Hidden Gems: Discovering Local Art

Montreal is a city alive with creativity, where art is not confined to galleries but spills out onto the streets, transforming entire neighborhoods into open-air museums. Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or simply curious about the local culture, Montreal offers a rich tapestry of artistic experiences waiting to be discovered. At Werfy, we believe in connecting our guests with the essence of this vibrant city, and there’s no better way to do that than by exploring its hidden artistic treasures. At Werfy, we believe that experiencing a city’s culture is about more than just visiting the tourist hotspots—it’s about discovering the hidden gems that make a place truly unique.

At Werfy, we believe that experiencing a city’s culture is about more than just visiting the tourist hotspots—it’s about discovering the hidden gems that make a place truly unique. That’s why we’re committed to helping our guests explore the best of Montreal’s art scene, from its vibrant street murals to its world-class galleries.

The Plateau: A Canvas of Street Art

Begin your journey in the Plateau, one of Montreal’s most iconic neighborhoods, where the streets themselves serve as a canvas for some of the city’s most impressive street art. This area is a haven for murals, with Saint-Laurent Boulevard—often referred to as « The Main »—at its heart. As you walk down the boulevard, you’ll encounter a kaleidoscope of colors and themes, from abstract patterns to social commentaries, each mural telling its own story.

One of the highlights is the annual Mural Festival, where artists from around the world come to add their touch to the city’s walls. Even if you miss the festival, the murals remain, constantly evolving as new pieces are added. This ever-changing gallery makes the Plateau a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Montreal’s dynamic and diverse cultural scene.

Old Montreal: Where History Meets Contemporary Art

As you make your way to Old Montreal, you’ll step into a world where history and modernity coexist in harmony. The cobblestone streets and historic architecture create a stunning backdrop for the contemporary art galleries that dot the area. Here, art isn’t just about what’s on the walls—it’s about the entire experience.

Art galleries in the Old Port Area feature a wide array of contemporary works, from vibrant abstract paintings to intricate sculptures, offering something for every art lover. The PHI Centre and Fondation PHI pour l’art contemporain are essential stops. These spaces are known for their cutting-edge exhibitions and immersive art experiences, featuring world-renowned artists and emerging talent alike. Whether you’re drawn to visual arts, digital media, or performance, these venues offer a deep dive into the avant-garde.

The Belgo Building: A Hidden Treasure Trove

For those who crave a deeper exploration of contemporary art, the Belgo Building in downtown Montreal is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This unassuming building houses over 30 galleries and artist studios across five floors, making it a central hub for the city’s contemporary art scene.

Each gallery within the Belgo offers something unique. At Patel Brown, you’ll find works that challenge conventions and explore new artistic territories. Galerie B-312 focuses on experimental and interdisciplinary practices, pushing the boundaries of what art can be. Meanwhile, McBride Contemporain showcases a mix of emerging and established artists, offering a space where innovation and tradition meet.

Wandering through the Belgo Building, you’ll experience a diverse range of artistic expressions, from large-scale installations to intimate photographic works. It’s a place where art enthusiasts can spend hours exploring, discovering new artists, and engaging with thought-provoking exhibitions.

Exploring Indigenous and Inuit Art

Montreal’s art scene is deeply enriched by the contributions of Indigenous and Inuit artists, whose works offer profound insights into their cultures and traditions. In Old Montreal, several galleries are dedicated to showcasing these unique perspectives.

Heritage Gallery, for instance, is a treasure trove of Indigenous and Inuit art, featuring everything from finely detailed carvings to contemporary paintings. Galerie d’art Images Boréales, located nearby, also specializes in Indigenous art, with a focus on works that highlight the deep connection between the artists and their natural surroundings.

For those looking to delve even deeper into these traditions, La Guilde on Sherbrooke Street West is a must-visit. This gallery and museum are dedicated to preserving and promoting both historical and contemporary Inuit and First Nations art. Here, you can explore a vast collection of artworks that span centuries, each piece offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Canada’s Indigenous peoples.

The World of Graffiti Art and Affordable Artworks

Montreal’s art scene is as accessible as it is diverse, with many galleries offering affordable pieces that make it easy to bring a piece of the city’s creativity home with you. If you’re interested in graffiti, tattoo art, or pop culture-inspired works, you’ll find plenty to explore.

Yves Laroche Galerie d’art in the Old Port is a hotspot for street art enthusiasts, featuring works by some of Montreal’s and the world’s top graffiti and pop art artists. S16 Gallery, also located in the Old Port, offers a similar focus, with exhibitions that celebrate urban art and its impact on contemporary culture. And if you happen to be in Montreal in the fall, don’t miss Expozine, an annual small press fair in Mile End that features affordable limited-edition prints, posters, and zines by local artists.

Experience Montreal’s Art Scene with Werfy

When you stay with us, we’ll provide you with insider tips on where to find the most inspiring artworks, whether you’re interested in contemporary pieces, traditional Indigenous art, or cutting-edge street art. Our properties are perfectly situated to give you easy access to all these artistic treasures, allowing you to immerse yourself in Montreal’s creativity.

Discover Montreal’s hidden artistic gems with Werfy—your gateway to the city’s thriving art scene. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, we’ll ensure that your time in Montreal is as inspiring as the artworks you’ll encounter.