Bilateral Artistic Project Afromusée Quebec - Côte d’Ivoire BJKD Foundation

Montreal — At the BOA Gallery, located in the heart of Montreal’s metropolis, an inspiring cultural encounter marked a significant milestone in the artistic cooperation between Canada and Côte d’Ivoire. Guy Siou Djedid, Artistic Director of the Afro-Canadian Cultural Centre of Montreal, presented the Acoustique exhibition, in the presence of a distinguished guest: Olga Dadji, representative of the BJKD Foundation of Abidjan, a long-time partner of the Afromusée.

This meeting was much more than a simple visit. It solidified the foundations of a major project currently in development: the second edition of Regards Croisés, an artist residency and exhibition that will bring together Ivorian and Canadian artists in Montreal in 2025.

“We already had a wonderful collaboration in Abidjan, where four Canadian artists participated in an artist residency followed by a joint exhibition with four Ivorian artists. It was a great success, and we are eager to welcome our Ivorian partners here in Quebec,” said Guy, highlighting the project’s dynamism and ambition.

For Olga Dadji, this collaboration between the BJKD Foundation — an Ivorian organization committed to promoting art, culture, education, and entrepreneurship — and the Afro-Canadian Cultural Centre represents a rare and valuable opportunity: “It’s an incredible chance for Ivorian artists to discover the Canadian art scene. Guy showed remarkable commitment during Act 1 in Abidjan, and it’s only natural for us to continue this momentum in Montreal,” she said.

In Montreal for the Rendez-vous de la Francophonie, Ms. Dadji used her visit to finalize, alongside Guy, the initial logistical and artistic groundwork for the 2025 edition. Her visit to the Acoustique exhibition at the BOA Gallery was also an opportunity for her to explore the richness of Afro-Canadian cultural heritage.

“What I saw here today shows that a major event is in the works. Drums, symbols, colors — everything is here to represent the greatness of African culture in Canada,” she added enthusiastically.

The Regards Croisés project reflects a commitment to intercultural dialogue between African and Canadian communities. It aims to build lasting bridges between artists from both nations while celebrating their identities and creative expressions.

Jean-Baptiste Festibec, a committed figure in the Montreal community and steadfast supporter of African cultural initiatives, was also thanked for his continuous support:

“Festibec’s work is invaluable. Always attentive, always present to support the African diaspora’s projects. His involvement truly makes a difference,” concluded Olga Dadji.

Next stop: Montreal 2025. A promise of exchange, creation, and cultural radiance for a contemporary Africa — vibrant and connected to the world.