The Magazine’s Mandate

Esse arts + opinions is a bilingual magazine of reference, produced in Montreal since 1984, on Canadian and international art. Published three times a year by Les éditions Esse, the magazine covers art practices ranging from the visual arts to theatre arts, digital arts, and various forms of social interventions, in situ or performative. Each issue includes a thematic section complemented by a portfolio of artworks, a section comprising critical articles and reviews of exhibitions and events.

Esse has always been resolute in its intention to surface ethical reflections and the resulting social changes. As a consequence, its target readership is not limited to the field of art but extends to a broader community interested in environmental, ethical, political, cultural, and identity-related issues.

Over the years, Esse has distinguished itself for the engaged nature of its themes, the consistency and quality of its publications, its burgeoning activities on the international scene, and its self-funding activities, such as the annual Vendu–Sold auction.

Why give to Esse?

As a non-profit organization, Esse needs the community’s support to advance its activities. By supporting Les éditions Esse, you are encouraging researchers and artists from Quebec and elsewhere—you’re helping to provide them with visibility so that they can join the conversation and contribute to the flourishing and independence of contemporary art. Your donation will help to develop and publicize the Quebec and Canadian art scenes.

What is the Vendu–Sold auction?  

Initiated in 2009 by Les éditions Esse, the Vendu–Sold auction creates connections among art, collecting, and philanthropy. A catalogue presenting the artists and works in the auction accompanies each edition. Vendu–Sold has also served as a jumping-off point for reflections on issues in the art market – reflections developed in several edited books published by Les éditions Esse. Visit http://encan.esse.ca to find out more.

What are Esse’s future projects?  

Currently, Esse is working on its new web platform, which will be put online in fall 2021 and will host all content in a digital version optimized for the web and for mobile devices. The website will contain our archives in a consultable format.

Esse continues to participate annually in a number of contemporary-art fairs, including Paris Photo, Drawing Now, Paris + (Paris), Frieze (London, New York), the Armory Show (New York), Plural (Montreal), Art Toronto, and others. This way, Esse is committed to ensuring that a Canadian player is present and recognized on the international art scene.