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PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art

4.7
·468 reviews·Montréal, Canada

Discover contemporary art in intimate, historical settings. The PHI Foundation offers unique exhibitions and special events in Montreal.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
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PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art - Image 1

PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover contemporary art in intimate, historical settings. The PHI Foundation offers unique exhibitions and special events in Montreal.

4.7
(468 reviews)

"The small size of each floor adds an air of intimacy which worked well for the exhibition on during my visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Exhibits, especially popular ones, can sell out. Check the website and book in advance to guarantee entry.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

The foundation uses two historical buildings; allow time to discover art in both unique spaces.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yayoi Kusama Exhibition

Yayoi Kusama Exhibition

An immersive and unforgettable experience with the iconic artist's work. A must-see for art lovers.

Reddit
Intimate Exhibition Spaces

Intimate Exhibition Spaces

Discover contemporary art in charming, multi-floored historical buildings that offer a unique, intimate viewing experience.

Reddit
Special Art Events

Special Art Events

Experience unique, limited-time art events that offer a deeper dive into artists' lives and creative challenges.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Exhibits

Tickets for special exhibitions at the PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art can sell out, especially on weekends. Check their website and book in advance to avoid disappointment, even if admission is free for some shows. Reddit

Explore Two Historic Buildings

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art spans two distinct historical buildings. Allow ample time to explore the intimate, multi-floored spaces and appreciate the unique atmosphere of each exhibition. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique programming and atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

A hello from England

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Exhibits, especially popular ones, can sell out. Check the website and book in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

The foundation uses two historical buildings; allow time to discover art in both unique spaces. Reddit

reddit.com

Cheap(er)/free tickets to Museums?

🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Engage with the staff; they are professional and can offer insightful information about the art. Reddit

📍 Well-Located Venue

Easy to find and accessible, making it a convenient stop during your Montreal visit. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Exhibits, especially popular ones, can sell out. Check the website and book in advance to guarantee entry. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Buildings

The foundation uses two historical buildings; allow time to discover art in both unique spaces. Reddit

🤝 Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff

Engage with the staff; they are professional and can offer insightful information about the art. Reddit

📍 Well-Located Venue

Easy to find and accessible, making it a convenient stop during your Montreal visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(468 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art for its intimate exhibition spaces within historical buildings and the quality of its contemporary art displays, particularly noting the memorable Yayoi Kusama exhibition. The staff are frequently commended for their professionalism and knowledge. However, a significant point of frustration for some is the lack of clear communication regarding ticket availability, leading to disappointment for those who couldn't secure entry to sold-out shows.

"Interesting small but multi floored contemporary art venue. The small size of each floor adds an air of intimacy which worked well for the exhibition on during my visit."

David Rigden

"I went to Fondation PHI once for a special limited art event and it was really cool. The staff knows there stuff well and they are really professional. I went with a bunch of friends and the experience was amazing. The tour was maybe 2h and we learned a lot about the history of the artist, her personal life and challenges so it was very inspiring."

Kassandra Élisabeth

"I would have loved to visit this foundation, it was at the top of my list for my weekend trip to Montreal, but unfortunately I couldn’t see anything. I went on a Saturday and was told every exhibit is sold out for the entire weekend. Nowhere on the website was it clear that tickets might sell out despite admission being free (and if this is written somewhere in the fine print, I wouldn’t consider that to be “clear”). I don’t live in Canada and not sure when I’ll have a chance to try again, if ever. Disappointing."

Alessandro M.

What People Like

Intimate exhibition spaces
Quality contemporary art
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Tickets sell out quickly
Unclear booking info

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art is well-located in Montreal, making it easy to access via public transport or a short taxi/rideshare. Many visitors find it convenient to combine with other downtown attractions. Reddit

While specific parking details can vary, the PHI Foundation is situated in an urban area, so street parking or nearby public parking garages are typically available. It's often recommended to check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates. Reddit

Yes, the PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art is within walking distance of many parts of Old Montreal, offering a pleasant stroll through the city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While some exhibits may have free admission, popular exhibitions, like the Yayoi Kusama show, often require advance booking and can sell out. It's crucial to check the official website for ticketing information and to book ahead, especially for weekend visits. Reddit

Admission costs can vary depending on the exhibition. Some exhibits are free, while others, particularly major installations, may have a fee. Always check the PHI Foundation's website for the most current pricing and ticketing details. Reddit

Opening hours can differ based on the exhibition and day of the week. It's best to consult the PHI Foundation's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Reddit

For popular exhibitions, tickets often sell out in advance, making same-day purchases unlikely. It's highly recommended to book your tickets online well in advance to secure your spot. Reddit

The PHI Foundation is housed in historical buildings, which may present some accessibility challenges. It's advisable to contact the venue directly or check their website for specific accessibility information regarding ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art features intimate, multi-floored exhibition spaces within historical buildings. This setup creates a unique and personal atmosphere for viewing contemporary art. Reddit

A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the exhibition and your interest level. Some special events might last longer, offering a more in-depth experience. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are sometimes offered for special exhibitions, providing in-depth insights into the artist's work and life. These tours can be very informative and inspiring. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially for specific installations. Reddit

The PHI Foundation showcases a diverse range of contemporary art, often featuring thought-provoking installations, digital art, and works by both established and emerging artists. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art typically focuses on its exhibitions and may not have extensive dining facilities on-site. However, its central location means numerous cafes and restaurants are available nearby. Reddit

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition spaces to protect the artwork. It's best to consume any refreshments before entering or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While photography rules vary, the unique architecture of the historical buildings and the immersive nature of some exhibits offer great photo opportunities. Always check for specific restrictions. Reddit

Professional photography sessions are usually not permitted without prior arrangement and specific authorization from the venue. Personal photos are generally allowed, subject to exhibition rules. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art focuses on contemporary art, which may not always be directly interactive for very young children, its intimate spaces can be manageable for families. The historical buildings themselves can spark curiosity. It's advisable to check the specific exhibition content beforehand to gauge suitability for your children. Reddit

Consider visiting during weekday afternoons when crowds are typically lower, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff can also help make the visit more educational and enjoyable for older children who can appreciate the art and its context. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers & Tourists

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art is a fantastic addition to any Montreal itinerary, especially for those interested in contemporary art. Its central location makes it easy to fit into a packed schedule, and it's often within walking distance of other major attractions. Reddit

Crucially, book your tickets in advance if you're visiting for a specific exhibition, as day-of tickets are often unavailable for popular shows. Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the unique, multi-floored spaces and appreciate the art without feeling rushed. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The PHI Foundation's Unique Spaces

The PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art distinguishes itself by utilizing two historical buildings for its exhibitions. This choice imbues the viewing experience with a unique sense of intimacy and character, a stark contrast to the often vast, minimalist spaces of larger contemporary art museums. Visitors often remark on how the architecture complements the art, creating a more personal connection with the works on display. Reddit

Each floor within these buildings offers a distinct setting, allowing for curated presentations that feel both focused and expansive. This approach means that exhibitions are often experienced in a more contemplative manner, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with each piece. The multi-floored layout adds an element of discovery as you ascend or descend to explore different facets of an exhibition. Reddit

This intimate setting is particularly effective for installations that benefit from a close-up, personal viewing. The historical ambiance of the buildings themselves becomes a subtle, yet significant, element of the overall artistic experience, making a visit to the PHI Foundation a memorable exploration of art within a rich context. Reddit

Navigating Tickets and Popular Exhibitions

Securing tickets for the PHI Foundation for Contemporary Art requires a proactive approach, especially for highly anticipated exhibitions like the Yayoi Kusama exposition. Reviews highlight that these popular shows can sell out completely, even on weekends, and that this information isn't always prominently displayed on the website. Reddit

Travelers who missed out due to not booking in advance express significant disappointment, particularly those visiting from out of town. The advice is clear: always check the official website for ticketing requirements and book your slots well in advance. Even for exhibits that are generally free, special installations might have a ticketing system. Reddit

Understanding the booking process is key to a smooth visit. Visitors are encouraged to monitor the PHI Foundation's online presence for announcements regarding new exhibitions and ticket release dates to ensure they don't miss out on experiencing Montreal's vibrant contemporary art scene. Reddit

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