From the very beginning, funeral cooperatives have understood that their mission extends far beyond death. They are here not only to care for those who have died, but above all to support those who are left behind. This support can take many forms, and over the years, art has become an important part of that journey. And for good reason: art has a remarkable ability to speak to the human heart.
Whether through music, painting, poetry, photography, or even dance, many funeral cooperatives have chosen to showcase art that encourages reflection, contemplation, emotional expression, wonder, or simply an appreciation for beautiful work. And why not?
Artwork on the walls, live music at special events, collaborations with local artists—embracing a different approach opens the door to new possibilities. But it hasn't always been this way. Not so long ago, velvet curtains, dated furnishings, and dark interiors often reinforced the heaviness that accompanied a visit to the funeral home.
Today, funeral homes are bright, welcoming spaces designed to make people feel comfortable enough to stay awhile—even if only to appreciate their surroundings. The presence of art has played an important role in this transformation. Art invites us to connect with something deeper within ourselves—a place where creativity, reflection, and emotion come together. And because emotion is so often at the heart of a funeral, the relationship between art and remembrance is a natural one, worthy of recognition.
It is not uncommon for funeral cooperatives to host art exhibitions, gallery openings, and concerts as part of special events, both indoors and outdoors. Death brings enough sorrow on its own. Surrounding those moments with beauty can offer comfort, ease the weight of grief, and bring solace to those who are hurting.
Text : Maryse Dubé
Published in Profil - Spring 2026
The First Steps
More than 20 years ago, within our network, the Coopérative funéraire de la Rive-Sud de Montréal (now the Coopérative funéraire du Grand Montréal) led the way by opening its spaces and walls to local artists.
“For a year, I exhibited my paintings as a member of the Association des artistes peintres de St-Hubert. I also remember that the Cooperative made one of its meeting rooms available once a month to the Amis de la poésie de Longueuil. More than twenty people would gather for those meetings, and the Cooperative welcomed us with complimentary coffee and cookies. In fact, everything was provided free of charge, and we were always made to feel genuinely welcome.”
Rose Lévesque, 92, member of the Coopérative funéraire du Grand Montréal
Professional painter, author, and poet :
https://www.rose-levesque.com/maison-musee/
