Museum of Jewish Montreal eager to share culture in new home

The Museum of Jewish Montreal (MJM) has a new place to call home.

In an announcement Monday, the MJM confirmed a 10,000 square-foot building at 5220 St-Laurent Boulevard will be a renewed space for “visitors and young people, in particular, to explore Montreal’s Jewish identity through a range of cultural experiences.

“MJM’s new location will see the Museum expand its programming in contemporary art exhibitions, cultural events, historical walking tours and food tours, community gatherings, and more.”

The museum is also making the move following two years of online operation. The new location will also add new public art and culture to the neighbourhood.

“After two years of building community online, it’s time to give a physical home to the growing numbers of people looking for new cultural and creative connections to Jewish life in Montreal,” said Zev Moses, the executive director of the Museum of Jewish Montreal, in a statement.

“The Museum’s strength lies within its vision for a stronger Jewish arts and cultural ecosystem in Montreal.

Central foyer of 5220 Saint Laurent Blvd. (Photo Courtesy: Museum of Jewish Montreal via Immophoto.)

“People have been waiting for new spaces to gather, and we want to bring our home to life as soon as possible.”

From July 2022, MJM will begin to activate its new space with arts and cultural programming. In October, MJM will open its first art exhibition in its new home, which will coincide with a public mural project and related programming.

“Construction will begin in early 2023 in order to make the upper floors accessible,” Moses added. “During this phase, the team will be developing an expanded programmatic infrastructure to fill its new home. The new MJM will host its official grand opening later in 2023. Until that time, the Museum’s new home will only be open for special events and exhibitions.”

The museum will be gradually moving into its new home over the next year.

“We want to give young adults a place to be creative, curious, and connected with Jewish identity on their own terms,” said Alyssa Stokvis-Hauer, the artistic director of the museum.

“We have all worked hard to make this day a reality and we’re excited to further develop and grow as an arts and cultural space in Montreal,” added Elana Ludman, president of the board of directors of the museum. “This home allows us to realize that dream.”