Fonderie Darling

Housed in a heritage building on the edge of Griffintown, the Fonderie Darling is a unique visual-art institution in Montréal.

Supporting the creation, production and dissemination of emerging artists’ work through a wide array of exhibitions, international residences, studios and production workshops, it is a true place of encounter, exchange, discovery and evolution aiming to bring together the local and international art scenes.  

Saved from demolition thanks to the not-for-profit art organization Quartier Éphémère, and declared a heritage building by the City of Montréal in 2001, the Fonderie Darling exemplifies an important part of the city’s industrial history at a time when metal works played a key role in the economic and commercial activity in the port of Montréal. Its longstanding concrete and brick construction pays homage to the architecture and craftsmanship of the day.

From its start in the 1880s, the Fonderie Darling developed into the second-most important foundry in Montréal. Today, it is a leader in the trend to convert post-industrial buildings into pivotal showcases of visual art.

Come summer, the Fonderie takes to the street, with La Place Publique, an outdoor public area set up to host temporary artworks and performances. By offering a unique site and activities designed for various publics, the Fonderie Darling enhances the well-being and quality of life of neighbourhood residents by bringing art to the people.