Yes, it’s that time of year again – POP Montréal time. The last weekend of freedom, music and staying out all hours, before we all realize just how much work we have to do. But POP Montréal can be overwhelming, and if you’re going to multiple shows, it can also get pretty expensive. It’s also not the only cultural event happening in Montreal this week, believe it or not.
If you’re looking for something with a little less hype, check out the new exhibit at the Montréal, arts interculturels (MAI) gallery on Jeanne-Mance. Jacqueline Hoang Nguyen, a Québecoise artist of Vietnamese origin currently based in Stockholm, has developed a 25-channel sound installation inspired by a curious event that occurred over fifty years ago in central Africa. Her exhibit, “For An Epidemic Resistance,” takes a closer look at the social significance of contagious laughter, as exemplified by the six-month-long laughter epidemic of 1962, where people of all ages experienced symptoms of uncontrollable laughter. So if you’re looking for one last laugh before midterms descend, Nguyen’s exhibit could be it.
“For an Epidemic Resistance” runs until October 18.