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Programming

CATHERINE LALONDE MASSECAR

À la recherche de la variable humaine (X)

To explore the theme of “Methods and games of space: zones of existence" as part of DARE-DARE's programming, Catherine Lalonde Massecar proposes an approach based on the Machine génératrice de protocoles (mgP) she created in 2022.

Laboratoire [à ciel] ouvert

Through the distribution of poetic mathematical formulas and artistic scores to be implemented at La Halte and in the streets of the neighborhood, the artist invites you to freely explore the various forms that the interpretation of these suggested formulas can take, or to create new ones.



À la recherche de la variable humaine (X)

(mmP) ⟶ (mgP) = (nS)

Catherine Lalonde Massecar

Variable X

In mathematics, a variable is an unknown value that varies within a set of numbers. A variable is noted with a letter.

In a public art process based on an equation or formula, the variable X is used to identify the unknown factors in the set of elements to be taken into account.

To explore the theme of “Méthodes et jeux de l'espace: zones d'existences” in the DARE-DARE program, Catherine Lalonde Massecar proposes an approach based on the Machine génératrice de protocoles (mgP) she created in 2022.

Putting this machine into action involves executing the formula (mmP) ⟶ (mgP) = (nS), and leads to the generation of new systems for creating and conceptualizing artistic maneuvers and operations.

À la recherche de la variable humaine (X) proposes to rethink this formula by integrating factors related to the human encounter (xRH) and the impermanence of the territory of action (xTA)


Summer 2024 – Spring 2025

Phases of exploration and actions of the work-process

· Investigation and research into existing formulas. Logbook entry - summer 2024.

· Laboratory L=309: exploration of writing new equations on blackboard. Collaboration / thanks : Laurence Beaudoin Morin, Sylvie Laplante, Paul Bradley, Nicolas Bernier and Mary Massecar. Realization: July 3 and 4, 2024 at Local 309, adjacent to DARE-DARE, 2515 Delisle Street, Local 311, Montreal.

· Laboratoire [À CIEL] OUVERT (L=CnO): application of artistic formulas and scores in public space. Collaboration / thanks : Mayra Morales, Marianne Rouche, Alexandre Piral, Karine Galarneau, Sylvie Laplante, Adrean Clark, Caroline Boileau, Mary Massecar, Fanie Mousseau, Marc-André Lefebvre and Martin Tétreault. Realization: August 17, 2024 at the HALTE, Parc Sainte-Cunégonde, 2653 rue Notre-Dame W, Montreal.

· Partition P = V∩H : co-creation of a graphic score [speech + actions + music + video] where different forms, textures, formulas and resonances intertwine around the idea of the human variable. Concept: Catherine Lalonde Massecar - words and actions (left column), Érick d'Orion - music (middle column), David B. Ricard - video (right column) and Martin Dufrasne (parasitic interventions).

The first performance of the score took place on April 17, 2025 at a DARE-DARE event in room #608 of the TOPO center (5445, avenue de Gaspé, Montreal).

· Publication of Petit registre de formules - Variable X: art, actions, formulas, variables and public spaces. Return in images of the explorations of L=309 and L=C∩O, and transmission of artistic formulas and protocols to be put back into action as desired. Booklet: Catherine Lalonde Massecar & allié-es. Design and production: Martin Dufrasne (DARE-DARE, 2025, 95 p.).


* Protocol generating machine (mgP) :

Méta-méta protocole (mmP)  Let the ideas, words, sparks and images that occupy our minds appear, and which will enable us to formulate, at the limit of consciousness and what escapes it, some instructions for establishing a protocol-generating machine (mgP).

Protocol-generating machine (mgP) Instinctively/machinically execute a sequence of operations over a period of time determined by the meta-meta protocol (mmP).

New system (nS) Allow a code, formula, concept or sign to emerge from the protocol-generating machine (mgP). Formulate the new system (nS).

Carnets de l'Opéra-Manœuvre, 2022, p.47

Catherine Lalonde Massecar 


Catherine Lalonde Massecar

Catherine Lalonde Massecar has been working in the field of interdisciplinary arts for some fifteen years, as an artist-researcher and instigator of projects involving material and immaterial forms in the real world. Her proposals oscillate between collaborative artist/community creations in Montreal's Centre-Sud district (where she founded Péristyle Nomade) and experimental and infiltration projects in multiform locations (solo and with Duo Massecar-d'Orion). She holds a master's degree in theater from UQAM, with a thesis on artistic infiltration and the fragmentation of dramaturgy in urban territory (2011). She also holds a doctorate in art studies and practice (2024), focusing on Opéra-Manœuvre to explore the paradoxical and unpredictable encounter between artistic maneuvering and the concept of opera, in order to amplify the relationship to the world.