Rencontre des arts, a ART[O] initiative

A large open-air gallery

Every spring, the Old Saint-Jean becomes a vibrant core of creativity. For three days, Rencontre des Arts transforms the public square and the downtown into a vast open-air gallery where art, encounters, and discovery unfold at the artists' pace.

Organized by ART[O] La Coop créative, the event brings together visual artists in a friendly and inspiring atmosphere.

This edition will be overseen by our new Ambassador Widemir Normil, a public personality recognized by Quebecers.

An experience for everyone

Over the weekend, visitors can:

• Meet the artists and discover their worlds
• Attend artistic demonstrations
• Participate in workshops for the whole family: painting, ceramics, crafts, and circus skills
• Explore the cultural circuit in the shops of Old Saint-Jean
• Vote for the People's Choice Award and participate in the contest

People of all ages are invited to create, experiment, and experience art up close.

Art and the Circular Economy

Rooted in the circular economy, Rencontre des Arts brings numerous projects highlighting the creative repurposing of materials sourced from local businesses’ waste and transforming them into something new.

The ‘Emerging Artists' Tent will present creations made from recycled materials, while the public can also participate in a collaborative artwork created from industrial waste, guided by artists.

Special Screening – May 23 at 7 PM

What if trees could speak… what would they tell us?

ART[O] invites you to discover TREES AND ARTS… Ah! If Trees Could Speak…, a film by director André Desrochers, a filmmaker with over 45 years of experience and a resident of Western Montérégie.

Through a poetic yet thought-provoking approach, this documentary highlights the richness of the Suroît ecosystems. Majestic, rare, centuries-old, and endangered trees reveal their stories, their secrets… and their vital importance.

Blending nature and creativity, the film also explores how humans can protect forests and give them a second life through art.

An invitation to reflect, feel… and see the forest differently.

The Satellite Project in collaboration with the City of Saint-Jean

The Satellite Project is one of this year's highlights.

In the months leading up to the event, approximately one hundred visitors participated in the creation of large collective sculptures, guided by artists and made from reclaimed materials sourced from local businesses.
These immense works will be unveiled during the Rencontre des Arts (Arts Encounter), showcasing the creativity and participation of an entire community.

A must-see event

Every year, thousands of visitors come to discover the region's rich artistic heritage and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Old Saint-Jean.
Whether you are an art lover, a collector, or simply curious, the Rencontre des Arts is an invitation to stroll, explore, and be amazed.

WHEN: the weekend of 22 to 24 May

May 22, 2026, from 11 am to 6 pm

May 23, 2026, from 11 am to 6 pm

May 24, 2026, from 11 am to 4 pm

WHERE: La Public place of old Saint-Jean

$ : free.

Click HERE to learn about ART[O] For any questions contact us at direction@cooparto.com