Carpe Noctem: MAC Gala to Fund New Era for Quebec's Artists

MONTRÉAL, QC – February 05, 2026 – The Fondation du Musée d'art contemporain de Montréal (MAC) is set to transform Place Ville Marie into a "realm of lucid dreams" for its 18th annual Printemps du MAC fundraising gala. Themed Carpe Noctem, the highly anticipated event on May 29, 2026, aims to unite the city's next generation of philanthropists for an immersive night of art and celebration, with all proceeds directly supporting a vital new program for emerging artists, Habiter le MAC.

For one night, the iconic downtown landmark will become an ethereal landscape where contemporary art, music, and gourmet experiences converge. More than just a party, the event represents a crucial investment in the future of Quebec's cultural ecosystem, providing tangible support for artists at a critical stage in their careers.

Nurturing the Next Generation: The 'Habiter le MAC' Initiative

At the heart of this year's fundraising effort is Habiter le MAC, an ambitious new program designed to serve as a career incubator for emerging artists across Quebec. Launching in Spring 2026, the initiative moves beyond the traditional residency model by deeply embedding artists within the museum's daily life and fostering a unique, ongoing dialogue with the public.

The program will welcome two cohorts of six artists, each for an eight-month residency at the MAC's temporary location in Place Ville Marie. Participants, who must have ten years or less of professional experience, will receive dedicated studio space, a production grant, personalized mentorship from an established artist, and tailored training from the museum's expert teams. This comprehensive support structure is designed to address the significant hurdles many artists face early in their careers, from securing affordable workspace to gaining professional visibility.

"This year marks the arrival of the very first cohort of Habiter le MAC, an inspiring program that supports the development of emerging artists in Quebec," said Catherine Julien, Executive Director of the Fondation du MAC. "It was essential for the Fondation to support the MAC's program in its first year, in order to give it the means to fully develop and maximise its concrete impact for emerging artists."

The program distinguishes itself from other support systems in Montreal's vibrant but competitive arts scene through its direct institutional integration and focus on public engagement. After March 8, 2026, the MAC's space at Place Ville Marie will cease presenting traditional exhibitions, transforming into a dynamic hub for artistic creation and interaction. Through workshops, open studios, and public visits, Habiter le MAC aims to demystify the creative process and build lasting connections between artists and the community.

An Immersive Night of Philanthropy and Art

The Carpe Noctem theme promises an experience that blurs the line between a gala and an art installation. The Fondation du MAC is collaborating with creative partners Martha and visual effects powerhouse RodeoFX to shape an unforgettable universe for guests. The evening will feature gourmet food stations, signature cocktails, musical performances, and creative brand activations, all designed to transport attendees into a dreamscape under a starry sky.

"With Carpe Noctem, the night becomes a playground for the imagination," explained Catherine Martel, Co-Chair of the Printemps du MAC Committee and Executive Director & Partner, Brand Innovation at Haus of Park. "Inspired by dreamscapes and the creative spirit, this immersive evening invites participants to celebrate, exchange ideas, and let themselves be carried away in a shared dream."

A highlight of the night will be the exclusive early access granted to attendees into the studios of the inaugural cohort of Habiter le MAC artists. This provides a rare, intimate glimpse into the creative process that their donations directly support, forging a powerful connection between the act of giving and its tangible outcome. Tickets for the event start at $250, representing a direct contribution to the program.

"Les Printemps du MAC are a powerful driving force for both the business and philanthropic community," stated David-Marc Bouchard, event Co-Chair and Managing Partner at TROUVÉ - Recruitment Firm. "Thanks to the commitment of participants, our partners, and sponsors, every contribution has a direct impact: it supports Habiter le MAC and provides concrete resources for development, creation, and outreach."

A Legacy of Support and a Vision for the Future

Since its creation in 2006, Les Printemps du MAC has become a cornerstone of Montreal's philanthropic landscape, raising over $3 million and engaging more than 14,000 participants. The event is orchestrated by a dedicated committee of young professional volunteers, demonstrating a sustained commitment from a new generation to championing contemporary art.

This year's edition holds particular significance as the MAC continues to navigate a period of profound transformation. While its main building in the Quartier des Spectacles undergoes a major architectural overhaul, with a reopening planned for 2028, the temporary relocation to Place Ville Marie has allowed the institution to not only maintain its public presence but also to innovate. The shift from a traditional exhibition space to a living studio and public dialogue hub for Habiter le MAC exemplifies this strategic resilience.

The event's success relies on the collective effort of its volunteer committee and the support of honorary co-chairs, including William Gingras of Arthur Majordome, Dr. Samuel Rodriguez of Dermapure Outremont, Emmanuelle Tellier of Botpress, and Christian Travaglini of Quadra Capital Partners. Their involvement underscores the deep roots the event has grown within Montreal's business and professional communities. By channeling the energy of a premier social gathering into a focused mission, Carpe Noctem continues the legacy of Les Printemps du MAC, ensuring the museum remains a vibrant and supportive force for art and artists in Quebec, even as it builds its future home.

The funds raised will provide a critical foundation for the first cohort of artists, empowering them to create, innovate, and connect with audiences in new ways, ultimately enriching the cultural fabric of the entire province.