A WORD FROM EXHIBITION CURATOR INTERN HEATHER JOHNSON

Last year, I was thrilled to be accepted into Concordia University’s new Graduate Certificate in Curatorial Studies and Practices program. Returning to my studies after nearly 30 years was quite an adventure. Just imagine: the last time I wrote a research paper, the internet didn’t exist! The classroom experience was rich and varied, within a wonderful group of students from diverse backgrounds, ages, and experiences.

I've now reached the final stage of the program, the internship, which I've had the unique opportunity to complete in two phases. The first took place at the Marc Séguin Foundation, where I learned about the workings of a foundation dedicated to a living artist, witnessed the launch of an exhibition currently underway in Repentigny, and discovered the responsibilities involved in creating a catalogue raisonné. For the second phase, I find myself here at Studio M, and I'm thrilled to gain practical experience within this welcoming and community-focused gallery—a gallery located on my street and in the heart of my community, where I've lived since 1994!

Under the supervision of the generous Madeleine Murphy, I am learning the day-to-day workings of a small rental gallery; we visit artists in their studios and plan future exhibitions and events.

"ART ACT TWO'', 2nd edition, an exhibition and sale of a donated collection of vintage posters, represents my first curatorial experience outside of a school setting. I am very grateful for this opportunity and your support. I Hope you enjoy the exhibition!

Heather Johnson, July 2026