Mission and Mandate
A summary of our mandate
The Centre de diffusion 3D (CDD3D) is dedicated to valorising and distributing the work of artists and authors through critical writing and public programming in Québec and across Canada, as well as internationally. Acting as a reference in contemporary art, CDD3D promotes knowledge sharing and fosters a diversity of perspectives and innovative approaches related to artistic practices engaging with spatiality.
To fulfill this mission, CDD3D produces and distributes the magazine ESPACE art actuel as its core activity, while organizing or participating in events that help deepen reflection and spark discussion on contemporary art. It also establishes partnerships with organizations whose mandates promote similar objectives.
Mission statement
The CDD3D is dedicated to cultivating the vitality of contemporary art criticism and supporting artists, writers, and emerging critics in developing and promoting their practices and perspectives. To do so, CDD3D is committed to:
- Publishing ESPACE art actuel – practices and perspectives, in print and online, focusing on contemporary art issues related to spatiality. The magazine is published three times a year (winter, spring, fall), with each bilingual (French/English) issue featuring a thematic dossier. The online platform presents exclusive content and engages with current artistic discourse.
- Supporting emerging writers in the publication of critical texts.
- Organizing activities such as roundtables, discussions, and lectures, bringing together artists, art historians, and art critics.
- Participating in outreach events such as fairs, exhibitions, and launches.
- Disseminating artists’ work through the production of limited-edition artworks.
History
History and Highlights
Founded in 1987, the Centre de diffusion 3D (CDD3D) launched Espace Sculpture, initially devoted to contemporary sculpture. A founding member of CDD3D alongside Édouard Lachapelle and Joëlle Morosoli, Serge Fisette served as editor-in-chief from 1987 to 2013. Under his leadership, the magazine established itself as a platform for research, reflection, and dissemination of contemporary artistic practices, notably through its thematic issues and coverage of exhibitions and international events.
In December 2013, André-Louis Paré—an active contributor since 1988 and a member of the editorial committee since 1994—assumed the magazine’s direction. This transition marked the beginning of a new cycle: the publication became ESPACE art actuel, broadened its editorial scope beyond sculpture, and adopted a renewed visual identity centred on the notion of space. The redesign affirmed the magazine’s openness to diverse artistic practices engaging with spatiality, from installation to multidisciplinary forms.
In June 2025, Gina Cortopassi and Lisa Tronca assumed the positions of Co-Executive Directors of the magazine, after having worked as editorial and administrative assistants, respectively. In an attempt to serve ESPACE’s communities – composed of artists, critics, curators, gallery owners, and cultural workers -, they refined the editorial mandate and program of activities. Under their leadership, the online platform expands, distribution is strategically focused on Canada, and collaborations with other organizations increases.