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August 18, 2025
Update: 2025-08-28

Ripon welcomes the Symposium d'art in situ in September 2025

in Petite Nation

Together naturally

From September 3 to 11, 2025, Ripon will vibrate to the rhythm of artistic creation with the Symposium d'art in situ - Ensemble naturellement. Organized by the Centre d'action culturelle de la MRC de Papineau, in collaboration with the municipality, this biennial event invites citizens, the curious and art lovers alike to plunge into the heart of the creative process, in a friendly and accessible atmosphere.

For nine days, the Coop Place du Marché will be transformed into an open-air studio where eight professional artists will create live sculptural works and installations in dialogue with the territory. The theme of the 2025 edition is Ensemble naturellement, highlighting the profound links between nature, community and artistic expression - values firmly rooted in Ripon's identity.

 

Artists from near and far

Five of the eight guest artists are from the Outaouais region. All stand out for their committed approach and their ability to make their art resonate in the public space. The public will have the privilege of observing the work of Daniel Bennett (Howick), Mustapha Chadid (Saint-André-Avellin), Samuelle Desjardins (Notre-Dame-de-la-Paix), Stéphane Langlois (Neuville), Michelle Lemire (Ripon), Stéfanie Lepage (Ripon), Jennifer Macklem (Ottawa) and Denis Marceau (Denholm). These creators will bring to life original works inspired by the landscape and the community that hosts them.

An open-air exhibition

One of the highlights of the symposium will undoubtedly be the unveiling of the works at a festive 5 à 7 on Thursday, September 11, in the presence of the artists. These creations will remain on site, creating a permanent outdoor exhibition, accessible to all visitors at all times. A magnificent cultural legacy for Ripon, and a new opportunity for a cultural hike in Petite Nation.

Several activities are planned to enrich the public experience:

  • Sunday, September 7, 2 p.m.: "Public art in Papineau" lecture by Marie-France Bertrand, museologist and symposium co-curator.

  • Tuesday, September 9 at 9 a.m.: Walking Club Day - a presentation of the symposium, followed by a group walk through Ripon and a tour of works in progress.

  • Thursday, September 11 at 5 p.m.: unveiling of the works at a festive 5 à 7, in the presence of the artists.

  • Throughout the symposium, visitors can watch the artists at work, chat with them and see the creations emerge day by day.

A collective work by Stéfanie Lepage

A highlight of this year's event was the creation of a participatory, intergenerational work led by Ripon glass artist Stéfanie Lepage. In the run-up to the symposium, six workshops to create miniature stained-glass windows were offered free of charge to the general public, upon registration. Held in June, July and August at the Salle des Miroirs in Ripon, the workshops brought together seniors, young people and families around a common project: a Gothic arch in wood and metal, enriched with handmade stained glass. A bench symbolizing human bonds completed this work, imbued with meaning and emotion.

Experience art live in Ripon

The Symposium d'art in situ - Ensemble naturellement is much more than an artistic event: it's a human and poetic encounter, a moment to marvel, learn and connect with our surroundings. Whether you're an art lover, a curious stroller or a long-time resident, this event invites you to slow down... and see differently.

Donate to Symposium 2025

A deep-rooted artistic tradition

Launched in 2013, the Centre d'action culturelle's Symposium d'art in situ is a traveling event that comes to life in a new municipality of the MRC de Papineau with each edition. Its vocation is to democratize contemporary art, enliven rural areas, and build bridges between artists and the population. In ten days, the link between art, territory and citizenship is naturally woven.