1985. Image-Worlds

The 1980s ushered in an era dominated by images–a visual history shaped by postmodernism, the mass media, fashion, design, music video, photography and video art. Forty years on, those images undeniably have true political import. They do more than illustrate visual trends: they have altered our perceptions and our thoughts, acting as catalysts for the social transformation of our world.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, VOX is looking back on that decade, which left its mark on its history and that of Québec. This exhibition brings together works and visual referents emblematic of the period. The forthcoming companion publication, meanwhile, will examine the lasting impact of the 1980s on our world today, addressing political tensions, economic recession, ecological challenges, the art ecosystem, technological transformations, demands for change from artists, youth, feminists and First Peoples and, not least, the global AIDS epidemic.

VOX wishes to thank the Canada Council Art Bank, Cinémathèque québécoise, Le Devoir, Daniel Langlois Foundation, McCord Museum, National Film Board of Canada, The Gazette and Vidéographe for their invaluable contribution. VOX also thanks Jean Blais, Ariane Émond, Dale King, Pierre Lachapelle, Andrée-Anne Léonard, Stéphane Le Duc, Lise Moisan, Francine Pelletier, Nicola Pelly, Peter Schindler, Su Schnee and Alexis Walker.

VOX would like to thank its founding members, in particular Marcel Blouin, Lucie Bureau and Alain Chagnon. We would also like to express our gratitude to the artists, members, administrators, colleagues, collaborators, funding organizations and partners who have shaped VOX’s history over the past 40 years.

Lastly, THANK YOU to you, our precious audience, for your ongoing support!

This exhibition and accompanying publication are made possible though the financial support of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the Conseil des arts et des lettres du Québec and the UQAM Connaissances en action programme and Faculty of Arts.