ATSA

Relational art can help build stronger communities through inclusiveness and by deepening our reflective awareness and social perspectives. This phenomenon has long been critical to progressive, dynamic societies. 

Founded in Montréal in 1998 by artists Annie Roy and the late Pierre Allard, Quand l’Art passe à l’Action   ̶  when art takes action (“ATSA”)  ̶  has earned a starring role in Montréal’s arts scene for its unique ability to use art to build bridges within our diverse communities and strengthen the city’s social fabric.

Their creations assume a number of forms, but the emphasis is always to educate, deepen public awareness, and issue calls to action to improve lives and strengthen community. Ultimately, ATSA is a creative, pacifist movement that contribute to sustainable development and fundamental human rights.

Raising Public Awareness

One of ATSA’s most successful signature events is Cuisine ta ville, a four-day event which offers a multidisciplinary experience with immigrants and refugees who make up the social fabric of Montréal. By interacting with fellow citizens, recent immigrants de-mystify their heritage and showcase their ability to enhance our community with their traditions and individual skills.

ATSA continues to build upon its success by staging Cuisine ton quartier, a localized version of Cuisine ta ville. Deployed in eight Montréal boroughs, it is designed so Montréalers know better the neighbourhoods of the refugees and immigrants. All ATSA events are presented free of charge to reach an audience as large and diverse as possible.

“The support that ATSA receives from donors such as Power Corporation has helped sustain our activities,” says Annie Roy, co-founder of the organization. “My life and artistic partner, Pierre Allard, passed away in late 2018, but with the continued support of our donors, we have confidence in the future.”