Mosaïcultures

Things to do at the Parc Floralies Gardens

On this 25th anniversary year of the Mosaïcultures internationales de Montréal, presented by Loto-Québec, Parc Jean-Drapeau is enriching its artistic and cultural heritage by welcoming three works emblematic of this special horticultural art.

Composed of approximately a half million flowers and plants, these monumental sculptures are now nestled into a permanent home in the heart of the Floralies Gardens, in a natural, urban environment accessible to everyone.

Visitors can admire these impressive creations, enjoy an immersive walk and rediscover Parc Jean-Drapeau's lush landscape and cultural wealth. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that blends nature, art and relaxation, consolidating Parc Jean-Drapeau as a must-visit, all-season place for people of all ages.

The sculptures

These three artistic works produced by Mosaïcultures internationales de Montréal embody the perfect alliance between nature, creativity and ecological engagement, while providing an area of contemplation and wonder for visitors of any age.


Mother Earth

A universal and timeless figure, Mother Earth is known by many names across the various cultures: Pachamama, Gaïa, Terra Mater, etc. Inspired by Aboriginal traditions, this symbolic art pays homage to the source of all life, human, vegetal, animal and cultural.

The colossal sculpture, a towering 11 metres high, depicts a caring, compassionate woman, whose eyes are closed as she lets a cascade of water flow from her arm. The sculpture conveys the cycle of life and the generosity of nature.

Regarded as one of the most emblematic works of engaged horticultural art, Mother Earth was unanimously heralded on the international scene in 2013 when it won the Grand Prix Public Award at the Mosaïcultures internationales de Montréal, the Frédérick Back Award and the Peking award of honor (9th China International Garden Expo).

Currently installed at Parc Jean-Drapeau, it invites reflection on our relationship with the planet and the importance of maintaining natural balances. It celebrates the deep harmony that unites all living things.

Géolocalisation

The Man Who Planted Trees

Inspired by the famous short story by Jean Giono (1953), this work is a tribute to the animated film The Man Who Planted Trees, produced by Frédéric Back in 1987 and rewarded with an Oscar in 1988. In 2009, with the participation of Frédéric Back, the story took on a new life in the form of mosaïculture.

Composed of 100,000 plants, the monumental sculpture depicts Elzéard Bouffier, a humble shepherd from Provence, who through his strong will singlehandedly planted acorns on arid land, transforming a desert landscape into a luxuriant forest.

This work illustrates the positive impact one individual can have on their environment. It celebrates hope, perseverance and respect for nature.

The recipient of the Grand Prix Award of Honor at the international mosaïculture exposition in Hamamatsu in 2009 and the Public Award, this famous work touches visitors worldwide.

Géolocalisation

The six pairs of YY

Inspired by Parc Jean-Drapeau's logo, which was designed in conjunction with Expo 67 and its founding theme of Man and His World, this custom-made work is depicted by six pairs of YY, spread out across Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame islands.

Each pair evokes stylistic human silhouettes, symbolizing unity, collaboration and the spirit of friendship.

A cross between nature, living art and memory of the Expo site, this installation guides the walkers' steps while offering new visual beacons in the Parc's landscape.

The photo is shown solely for reference purposes.

Schedule

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

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Blooming

While the mosaïcultures are accessible for a large part of the year, the ideal time to admire the works is the time span from the end of June to the beginning of September.

Rates

Free

Also worth discovering

A sustainable and responsible outdoors

To promote a healthy co-existence between the natural areas and the activities conducted at Parc Jean-Drapeau, the Parc urges users to respect the seven outdoor ethics principles recommended by Leave No Trace Canada.

Learn more

Wildlife

Parc Jean-Drapeau boasts a wealth of green spaces and a highly diversifed wildlife on the premises. There are very few places near Montréal that are home to as many mammals, along with a wide variety of birds and facilities specifically designed to house insects.

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Historical books

Get the literary works that cover the significant historical periods of Parc Jean-Drapeau.

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Floralies Gardens

To let you discover the marvels of nature in Montreal for free, the Gardens combine thousands of flowers, many types of trees and shrubs, lagoons and public art works!

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Restrooms

Parc Jean-Drapeau users have access to many safe and clean washrooms outside the sports, museum and entertainment facilities. The restroom facilities are located in key areas of Parc Jean-Drapeau, near activities and events, and some of these facilities are accessible year-round.

Schedule and details

Portrait sonore - Public Art

A walking path on Sainte-Hélène and Notre-Dame islands is there for your journey, on which you can learn more about public art works and the artists who created them.

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Public Art

A collection of 15 City of Montreal art works, done mostly for Expo 67, on display for free along the trails and gardens of Parc Jean-Drapeau.

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Hiking

With more than 25 kilometres of roads and trails, Parc Jean-Drapeau provides an outdoor escape in the heart of nature, just a few steps from downtown Montréal.

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Voyage des îles

Discover Parc Jean-Drapeau's bountiful culture and heritage and get access to a wealth of pertinent information through our brand new interactive experience: Voyage des Îles!

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Discovery Ride

As you ride aboard a 15-seat electric vehicle, take the time to travel more leisurely and crisscross the islands as carefree as the wind while you discover previously unseen places at Parc Jean-Drapeau.

Schedule and details

The future of the Parc

Relying on open governance that stimulates commitment and collaboration, Parc Jean-Drapeau is mobilizing to implement a series of actions aimed at achieving its ecological transition, enhancing its rich heritage, and creating vibrant, enriching experiences for its users.

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Information Center

Before setting out on your visit to the Parc, we suggest you stop at the Information Center that's right in the middle of Espace 67 on Île Sainte-Hélène, near the Jean-Drapeau subway station and the BIXI bike station.

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Picnic

Parc Jean-Drapeau has a wealth of outstanding places to enjoy a meal or snack in the great outdoors. Whether you are by yourself or with a companion, head off on a discovery of the two islands that compose the Parc and find your next peaceful oasis.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is mosaïculture?

    Mosaïcultures is a spectacular horticultural art form that involves creating monumental plant sculptures using thousands of plants arranged on a metal framework.

    Unlike traditional topiary, which is sculpted from a single plant, mosaïcultures combines a wide variety of plant species, selected for their colors, textures, and shapes, to bring expressive, ever-evolving living artworks to life.

Consult the FAQ

Photo credits

Here is information regarding the photos displayed on this page for which the copyright does not belong to the Société du parc Jean-Drapeau.

Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal
1 2
Gilles Proulx
1
St-Amour Fine Art Photography
1
Marc Onana
1

Learn more

To obtain more details concerning mosaïcultures or for any request for information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Mobility

Getting to the artworks

To make it easier to get around, here is the mosaïcultures area at Parc Jean-Drapeau posted on Google Maps.

Subway Station

The Jean-Drapeau subway station on the Line 4 — Yellow is located on Île Sainte-Hélène, in the heart of Parc Jean-Drapeau. To get to the Parc easily and quickly, the subway is still the best way to go!

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River shuttle

During the summer season, Parc Jean-Drapeau visitors can use the river shuttle as a means of transportation, from the Vieux-Port de Montréal (Jacques-Cartier pier) and the city of Longueuil.

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STM shuttle

Three STM shuttles provide a connection between the Jean-Drapeau subway station and various attractions.

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Bike

The Parc is one of the few places where you can cross the Saint Lawrence River on your bike: simply take the bike paths of the Jacques Cartier Bridge, the Concorde Bridge or the Bike link.

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Walking

People can enjoy many of the cycling paths to get to or pass through the Parc Jean-Drapeau, either running or walking.

With more than 25 kilometres of trails and pathways, the Parc is a pleasant spot for hiking, all year round.

Parking

Motorists can get to Parc Jean-Drapeau by taking the Jacques Cartier Bridge or the Concorde Bridge.

Nearby parking areas: P1, P5

Rates and parking areas

Taxibus service

You can reserve a taxi for your travels at the Parc by using a valid STM transport fare.

All the details

  • Subway
    Station
  • STM
    shuttle
  • River
    shuttle
  • Bike
  • Walking
  • Parking
  • Taxibus
    service

Map of Parc Jean-Drapeau July 4, 2025, 1 MB, (French only)

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