Promoting the Territory and its Designers

MONTRÉAL, August 6, 2024 – District Central, propelled by the Société de développement commercial (SDC) District Central, is a proud partner of the M.A.D. (Fashion, Arts and Entertainment) Festival. This is the first time the SDC has collaborated with the Festival, and it’s helping to raise the profile of the territory beyond its borders by showcasing the talent of its design firms. District Central, a fast-growing area renowned as the fashion district on the move, continues to reinvent itself and is keen to attract emerging designers and design companies.

“Design is one of the most important business sectors in the area, with 800 active companies in 2023. We’re proud that this collaboration will make it possible to showcase and discover the profiles of well-known and emerging designers in District Central,” says Hélène Veilleux, General Director of the SDC District Central.”

Sylvain Blais is presenting a bold and colourful photo exhibition showcasing the creativity and talent of local designers, including Iris Setlakwe, Brielle, Marie Saint Pierre and many others, in 8 iconic District Central locations. It’s an exhibition that showcases the past, present and future of the district, drawing inspiration from its manufacturing history, its know-how and its current status as an innovative hub for the fashion and textile industry.

“I was immediately inspired by the effervescence of the district and the rich heritage of its manufacturing history,” says Sylvain Blais, the exhibition’s photographer. “This project has allowed me to discover emerging designers and celebrate our Quebec icons who are making a name for themselves on the international scene – it’s refreshing!”

A renowned designer and pioneer of Canadian fashion, Marie Saint Pierre is a proud participant in the exhibition, sharing her special affection for District Central. For the past ten years, she has based her business operations, from design to manufacturing and distribution, in the district. “The District Central area is undergoing major change,” says Marie Saint Pierre. “I love this place because it tells the story of Montreal fashion in a unique way.”

The exhibition District Central x Sylvain Blais font rayonner la mode d’ici will be on view free of charge throughout the M.A.D. Festival, from August 22 to 25, in the Quartier des Spectacles and on the mezzanine floor of Hôtel W Montréal. A golden opportunity to see the District Central territory through a unique artistic lens.

ABOUT THE SDC DISTRICT CENTRAL

The Société de développement commercial (SDC) District Central is the catalyst and the voice of the Ahuntsic-Cartierville business world. It represents the combined forces of 2,100 business leaders united to develop a sector with outstanding economic, urban and human potential. Its mission is clear: to breathe new life into this legendary neighbourhood, make it shine on a broader stage and propel it to the very top of Montreal’s economic landscape.  Covering an area of 3km2, the District Central is the 4th largest employment centre in Montreal, with 25,000 workers grouped around three business hubs: design, urban manufacturing and technology.

ABOUT THE M.A.D. FESTIVAL

The M.A.D. Festival celebrates self-expression through fashion, art and entertainment. This unique event features free programming around urban art, fashion, design and music, as well as conferences with international personalities. Every year, many emerging and established artists and international icons share their art and vision with the general public. This event is the biggest open-air happening of its kind in North America, and will take place from August 22 to 25, 2024 in the Quartier des Spectacles.

ABOUT SYLVAIN BLAIS

Renowned creative director and fashion photographer Sylvain Blais has been commissioned by top brands to create exclusive content, advertising campaigns, photography and events for over 20 years. He was the force behind the artistic direction of Canadian fashion magazines Dress To Kill and DTK Men, which he also co-founded.

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INFORMATION

SDC District Central website

Media kit

MEDIA CONTACT

Maude Ouellette Archambault

[email protected]

450 602-8620