This summer, Topique returns on June 12–13, 2026 as Pique’s knowledge forum, enriching the festival’s 20th edition with a focused program of panels, artist talks, screenings, and demonstrations. Taking place at the Arts Court, the two-day gathering brings together artists, cultural workers, and makers from Uganda, Hong Kong, the United States, and across Canada to engage in timely conversations around equity, sustainability, and collective futures in the arts.

Rooted in artist-led knowledge sharing and critical exchange, this year’s program centres the conditions shaping how art is made, shared, and sustained today—from navigating borders and institutional barriers to building community-led infrastructure and reclaiming creative tools. 

Across disciplines and perspectives, these six sessions explore care, resistance, and collaboration as essential practices, inviting participants to imagine more just, connected, and responsive cultural ecosystems.

• Navigating international touring
• Sustaining artist-led ecosystems
• Sonic resistance and solidarity
• Decolonial instrument building and sound design
• Global sound system cultures

Admission to all Topique sessions is pay-what-you-can online or at the door. Each session is subject to the capacity of the venue it is held in, and a pass does not guarantee admission or a seat in all sessions. Please plan to arrive early to ensure admission.

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