3 July 2026 to 1 November 2026

This outdoor exhibition presented by Château Ramezay pays tribute to Jacques Nadeau, a photojournalist whose instinctive eye helped shape Québec's visual history for more than four decades. Through a selection of iconic photographs, it traces the journey of a free-spirited man who was constantly in motion, never searching for the perfect image, but rather for the truth of the moment. For Nadeau, photography was about capturing life in all its spontaneity, guided by what he called a real-life instinct.

Always at the heart of the action, Jacques Nadeau immersed himself in demonstrations, political events, and everyday life with remarkable intuition. He moved close to his subjects, often anticipating decisive moments before they unfolded. From large public gatherings to intimate encounters, his work reflects a profound sensitivity toward the people he photographed and a lifelong fascination with the human condition.

The selection of photographs and accompanying texts was curated by Jean-François Nadeau, journalist, historian, and former colleague of Jacques Nadeau at Le Devoir, in collaboration with Virginie Jacques-Nadeau, the photographer's daughter. Together, they present a moving portrait of an exceptional photographer whose work reveals not only his remarkable career, but also his deeply human way of engaging with the world, camera always in hand.

Through these powerful images, visitors are invited to rediscover the work of a photographer who documented both defining moments in Québec's history and the quiet poetry of everyday life, leaving behind a photographic legacy of extraordinary authenticity. This free exhibit is installed along Le Royer and St-Claude streets, bordering the museum garden and just steps from Place Jacques-Cartier, until November 1st, 2026.

The photo exhibition on Le Royer and Saint-Claude streets is presented with the support of the SDC Vieux-Montréal, as part of the Programme de soutien à l’offre culturelle du Vieux-Montréal.

 

Photo credits: Sara Megan

For the complete schedule and program, visit the official event website.