VJ, Igloofest’s Shadow Artist

Igloofest is already over, and we are already wondering how we will get through the next winter months. Nearly 80,000 dancers stormed the Old Port to^celebrate the 10th anniversary of this one-of-a-kind event. The organizers of this edition went all out. In addition to 74 music artists, 25 visual artists created magic on site. Little known to the public, they are nevertheless essential to Igloofest’s wild atmosphere. Masters of image, their creativity brings smiles to thousands of people in snowsuits. The only VJs I knew were the hosts on Musique Plus. Marion Carassou-Maillan, in charge of VJ programming, laughed at my definition. She explains that VJ stands for videojockey: the principle is the same as a DJ, but the VJ works with images in real time, using repetitive video elements in tune with electronic music. They create a conversation between image and sound. VJing comes from nightclubs and the arts and has been expanding since the 2000s. The practice has evolved with technology, which has multiplied the possibilities for immersive contact with the public. As shadow artists, VJs have real power. By paying attention, they contribute to the evening, and the audience feels their work. VJs are always placed facing the stage so they can follow the music and the crowd’s reactions. Imagining Igloofest without the visual forces that support the program is almost impossible. Some hesitant DJs would prefer not to have video support, but for the organization it is non-negotiable: projections are part of the show. Afterwards, Marion says, artists are very happy, because the experience is memorable for those not used to playing in these conditions and the video

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brings their music forward. Marion’s constant challenge is to match music artists with visual artists according to their artistic styles. A VJ must initially like the DJ for whom they create and be highly responsive to the work. The goal is always to create a festive moment below zero. These artists are part of Montréal digital culture. Through their practices and artistic expressions, spectators enjoy an intense immersive evening that leaves them with a strong memory. The aim is for them to leave the site wide-eyed. Marion emphasizes that VJs are artists, not operators, even if they must work with lighting designers to play with the crowd, make people jump or accentuate sounds. For her, the metropolis’s creative pool is enormous. She is already preparing the details of the next edition, which will celebrate Montréal’s 375th anniversary.^Until then, we can dream of the sunshine of May 22 for the opening of Piknic Électronik.