Women’s Art Society of Montreal Marks 131st Anniversary with Mental Health focus

The Women’s Art Society of Montreal (WASM) is celebrating a remarkable milestone this year—its 130th annual juried exhibition.

Founded in 1894, WASM stands as one of Montreal’s longest-standing art organizations, committed to uplifting emerging artists and advocating for mental health awareness in children.

This year’s exhibition holds special significance, as the proceeds will support mental health initiatives for children through the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation, making the event both a celebration of art and a meaningful contribution to a crucial cause.

“It’s a great honour to be able to promote and support emerging artists in our city and showcase them in our community. They’re all very different styles and unique,” said Eva Maria Minarakis, President of the Women’s Art Society of Montreal.

The exhibition features artwork from 63 artists, showcasing a range of styles and mediums. It is being held in a historic Montreal building, a perfect setting for this display of creativity.

“Number one, the venue where we are being exhibited. It’s a historic venue, so it’s every artist’s dream to be able to showcase their artwork in a space,” Minarakis explained.

She continued, “We have 63 artists with us this year and they’re all very different and unique and very talented. So I’m really excited to have everyone come and see their artwork. We are exhibiting till the end of the month and especially on Thursday on the meet and greet.”

The exhibition runs until the end of the month, and visitors can meet the artists in person during Thursday’s events.

“It would be great to come and explore the talent that we have in our city, our local artists. It’s a great family affair if you want on a rainy day, what to do on the weekend. It’s a beautiful space to come and see this historic venue. It’s very impressive and to come and see all the talented artists that are exhibiting here,” said Minarakis.

WASM’s mission extends beyond supporting artists; it’s about using art to improve mental health and well-being.

“Art plays a huge role in our mental health,” Minarakis said.

She continues, “To be able to promote artists that help our community to have art either in their homes or even to be able to explore art, a portion goes towards their mental well-being. So yeah, art plays a huge role in our mental health, so that’s what we promote and support emerging artists in our community.”

For Johanne Dussault, VP of the Women’s Art Society of Montreal, she says art is all around us.

“Art is what we leave behind as a humanity,” she said.

“We see proof of that all over the place, all over the world in caves and more is being discovered all the time,” she added.

For those who used to love art but have set it aside, Minarakis has some words of encouragement.

“To tap back into it, even if it’s just as a hobby or just to do something for your well-being and just unleash that creativity in you,” she advised.

“I think we all have it in us and it doesn’t take much to take it out and it’s very rewarding in the end.”

The Women’s Art Society of Montreal’s exhibition is a great opportunity to experience local talent while supporting a worthy cause. It’s the perfect outing for families, art lovers, or anyone looking for something unique to do.

The exhibition runs until the end of the month, so be sure to check it out before it ends.