TORONTO
It’s NXNE time, and the folks behind the DIY arts and culture publication Static Zine will be launching their latest issue at this event in conjunction with brand-spanking-new vintage shop/art space/show venue Of A Kind. The issue is their second based on NXNE, and features survival tips, tricks and editors’ picks. Sounds like a pleasant way to ease yourself into this week’s NXNE madness. Bands playing include The Danks, The Dead Ships, Mean Tangerine and Indian Wars. There will be beer for sale.
For the complete NXNE schedule, go here.
Come watch clever exhibitionists try and spell impossibly difficult words while doffing their garments bit by bit. This is a popular and riotous event that must be experienced to be believed. The event is queer, straight, senior and trans-friendly, and the atmosphere is warm and extremely encouraging. This event is part of Queer Pride 2012 at Buddies. Click the link above to check out the rules and perks, and even volunteer as a contestant…if you dare.
The Toronto literary journal Taddle Creek launches its summer issue, with readings by Jason Guriel and Sara Heinonen, and comic presentations by Nina Bunjevac and Dave Lapp—launching his new book, People Around Here. Free beer, free food, $5 magazines.
Saturday, June 16, 2:00-4:00pm, Bike Biennale, Trinity Bellwoods Park, free
The Bike Biennale, hosted by OCADU Student Gallery, will bring artists and makers together to set up a makeshift bike market. Transform your bike basket into a gallery or market stall. Zines, baked goods, jewellery, prints, pickled preserves, mixtapes, or any other creative goods are welcome for selling or trading. Come out and support!
To June 17, Luminato, various venues and prices, luminato.com
The urban arts and culture festival celebrates its fifth year with a variety of intriguing events. To learn more and get tickets, see the schedule here.
MONTREAL
Monday June 11, SlaMontreal, 4:30pm and 8:00pm, O Patro Vys, 356 Mont-Royal Av E, $8-$12, 19+
A poetry slam in French! Hosted by Ivy.
The second annual Weird Canada showcase of wild music and performance in Montreal. This evening of “wondrous electronics and bludgeoning chaos” has been spread across two venues and includes a variety of weirdo artists from across Canada. Co-presented with electronic music festival Suono Per II Popolo.
Thursday June 14 – Sunday June 24, Infringement Festival, venues and prices vary
This infamous countercultural event rears its head for another year. The fest supports independent, eclectic and controversial art in all forms. For a complete schedule and list of artists, click here.
To June 17, “Dance With Me,” Place-des-Arts, 175 rue Sainte-Catherine ouest, free
A downright playful space where spectators becomes DJs, choreographing virtual dancers. It’s your turn to lead the dance! Exhibition co-presented by Festival TransAmériques and Place des Arts.
VANCOUVER
The Vancouver International Song Institute, in partnership with Instruments of Change and VanCity Theatre, presents a five-day series of talks and films exploring the power of art as a catalyst for positive social change.