Stories that inspire

Esse arts + opinions, published by Les Éditions Esse, is a bilingual contemporary art magazine covering various artistic practices. It covers the visual arts, performing arts, digital arts and all forms of social, in situ and performance interventions.

With a focus on social issues and ethical reflections as well as the major changes they entail, Esse regularly reaffirms its mandate as an engaged magazine. Thus, the thematic issues it produces reflect the concerns of artists and citizens by proposing innovative avenues for reflection.

Since its very first participation in Mécénat Placements Culture via the Foundation of Greater Montréal, Esse has worked to consolidate its team. Notably, it has made certain previously temporary positions permanent. Human resources obviously became a major preoccupation in this post-pandemic era. Thus, the organization also carried out a major review of all of its employment policies and working conditions.

A new digital platform

The income drawn from the funds that are the beneficiaries of Mécénat Placements Culture also greatly facilitated Esse’s digital shift. Its new esse.ca platform allows it to reaffirm its commitment to the cultural sector. It also ensures the visibility of artists and authors thanks to a strengthened digital presence.

Numerous news and archival texts are still available free of charge. But a new paywall system offers readers the possibility of opting for subscription formulas. Those provide access to all of the magazine’s other content, on all of its platforms. With a view to enhancing discoverability and accessibility, the search engine, index and multiple tabs now make it easier to locate and peruse all contributors’ content.

Visit the Éditions Esse website

Picture: Esse, Lire l’art campaign © Alexandra Dumais