A penis shoe. Yes, that's what I discovered in Quebec City... in a museum, no less. (Keep scrolling for the dude with shell titties.)
During my recent visit to the enchanting city, I made sure to carve out time beyond the charming cobblestone streets of Old Quebec. My destination? The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ), an institution I had heard so much about and was eager to explore.
As a lover of art and culture, I knew this would be a significant highlight of my trip, offering a deeper dive into the province's artistic heritage.
Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the museum's impressive setting. (The great thing: as a media guest, we had access to the entire facility while it was closed.)
Nestled within the beautiful Plains of Abraham, the MNBAQ isn't just one building but a fascinating complex of four distinct pavilions: the historic Gérard Morisset building, the modern Charles Baillairgé pavilion, the ornate Louis-Philippe Hébert building (housing the famous Grand Hall with its stunning stained glass), and the striking, contemporary Pierre Lassonde pavilion. I found this multi-building layout quite unique and it added to the adventure of exploring, feeling like a journey through different eras and architectural styles even before I stepped inside.
Inside, I was immediately struck by the breadth and depth of the collections. The MNBAQ primarily showcases Québec art, stretching from ancient religious works and colonial portraits to vibrant contemporary pieces. I particularly enjoyed the modern and contemporary sections, which offered a dynamic and often provocative look at the province's artistic evolution. There were many artists whose names I was unfamiliar with and I appreciated the opportunity to discover their unique perspectives.
I also encountered some impressive works by European and international artists, which provided a broader context and demonstrated the museum's commitment to a diverse artistic dialogue.
We -- the museum's PR rep who acted as a personal tour guide, and me -- spent several hours wandering through the galleries, taking time to absorb the beauty and history on display. The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, with excellent bilingual descriptions that helped me understand the context and significance of each piece. (Let's be honest: as an American who barely gets English right half the time, French was totally lost on me! Don't even get me started on the confusion of "push" and "pull" door signs in this city.)
Overall, my visit to the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec was an incredibly enriching experience. It's more than just a museum; it’s a comprehensive journey through Quebec's artistic soul, skillfully presented within a magnificent architectural setting.
This is a spot worth dedicating a few hours to exploring. It offers a different, yet equally captivating, perspective on the city's vibrant cultural tapestry.