La Foule illuminée

La Foule illuminée is a bronze sculpture on McGill College Avenue in Montreal showing a crowd of 65 human figures arranged on four different levels. The figures stand close together in a dynamic composition that captures the feeling of crowded urban spaces.

British artist Raymond Mason created this sculpture in 1985 after beginning initial studies for the work in 1979. The project came about when the Louis Dreyfus Property Group commissioned a major public art piece for the site.

The figures represent a cross-section of Montreal society, showing people of different origins, ages, and social positions interacting together. Visitors can observe how diverse groups coexist in an urban setting through their varied poses and expressions.

The sculpture is located in downtown Montreal along McGill College Avenue and is easy to view from street level. The area around it is generally open and accessible, allowing visitors to walk around and view it from multiple angles.

The figures were crafted from light ochre polyester resin with polyurethane treatment, creating a glowing effect against the darker building facade behind them. This choice of material and color makes the work stand out distinctly from its urban surroundings.

Location: Montreal

Inception: 1985

Creator: Raymond Mason

GPS coordinates: 45.50314,-73.57310

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:02