James Oscar is a writer, art critic, and exhibition curator whose work lies at the intersection of experimental critique and anthropological inquiry. As a researcher at the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, his work has focused on cultural policy. His academic journey has been deeply influenced by his mentorship under Martinican philosopher Édouard Glissant and his collaboration with Ato Sekyi-Otu on the works of Frantz Fanon. <span>With 25 years of experience in contemporary art, Oscar has worked at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and served as Curator-in-Residence at Fonderie Darling (2022-2023). He currently leads the Musée des Arts Libres des Amériques et du Monde (MALAM), home to a significant collection of Caribbean art. His recent exhibitions include "Illuminations" (2024), "Le Langage Secret de l'Univers" (2023), and "Music for the World of Tomorrow".<br></span>

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As a civic researcher, he has engaged in dialogues with figures such as Cornel West and has contributed to major institutions, including Radio-Canada, the Canadian Museums Association, and the Canadian Centre for Architecture. As the founder of Montréal en Action, he spearheaded North America's first public consultation on systemic racism.

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His research explores artistic practices through the lens of critical anthropology across the Americas. His publication, "Imperial Amphitheatres", was launched at the Venice Biennale.

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Sylvine, better known as The Artiiist, of Central African origin, was born in France and has now been living in Canada for 12 years. From an early age, art has always played a central role in her life: singing, dancing and then painting. This passion has gradually turned into a real career: she is the founder of Smard Art.

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It was during the COVID-19 pandemic that Sylvine launched her artistic enterprise: Smard Art. Her talent and vision quickly attracted attention, propelling her work onto the international scene. This dazzling success has enabled her to make a living from her art and develop her business internationally, although she still harbors even greater ambitions.

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Through her work, she celebrates the identity, culture and beauty of black people, themes that are close to her heart. Combining traditional and digital art, she draws her inspiration from realism, which she considers a form of expression of great intensity, while exploring mixed media techniques and abstraction.

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Despite this recognition, she remains driven by the desire to push her own boundaries and reach an even wider audience.

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Stephane Moraille is a renowned entertainment lawyer, international recording artist, and co-founder of MassiveLab, specializing in AI-powered business solutions. She holds a Master’s in Intellectual Property Law from Osgoode Hall Law School and has worked in music, film, TV, museums, and technology since 2006.

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As co-founder of MassiveLab, Stephane leverages AI-driven strategies to optimize businesses in the creative and cultural sectors. Previously, she was Director of Legal & Business Affairs at PHI, worked with VICE, and handled film & TV clearances at Lussier & Khouzam.

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A dedicated mentor, she has led initiatives with Quebec’s Minister of Culture, Phoenix Music Executive Development Program, l’INIS, Coalition MEDIA, QEPC, DOC Institute, and CISF.

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A pivotal member of Bran Van 3000, her work earned Polaris Prize nominations (2015, 2022), a MuchMusic Video Award, Juno Award, Canadian Radio Award, Félix Award, and Gold record status. Her iconic song "Drinkin’ in LA" was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.

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Stephane serves on the Canada Council for the Arts (2022-2026) and the CCUNESCO board (2023-present), alongside leadership roles with SAC, UMAC, MuchFACT, Main Film, and ADVANCE Music Canada.

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