Peace Park: Post Up
Pop-up event 12 - 7 PM
'Peace Park: Post Up' is more than an art show—it’s a tribute to a place that changed skateboarding history. Presented by Rx Bearings and ELLEPHANT, this special exhibition marks three milestones: the 30th anniversary of Peace Park, the 10th anniversary of ELLEPHANT Gallery's opening, and the 10th anniversary of skateboarding’s official legalization in the park.
The centerpiece of the evening is the premiere of 'Post Up', a compilation of the best skating in Peace Park since skateboarding was legalized. Known for its raw skating and shocking reality, Peace Park will also be unveiling its brand-new Rx bearing model. This collaboration marks a major moment in Montreal’s skate culture.
The exhibition at ELLEPHANT will showcase rare Peace Park artifacts and stunning photo work by local legends including Dan Mathieu, David Boots, Danny Stevenson, Babas, and Jason Neil. These images document the park’s evolution—from a police-targeted skate zone to the world’s first public park to legalize skateboarding.
Peace Park isn’t just a granite park—it’s the heart and soul of skating in Montréal and a symbol of tolerance, respect, and co-existence. Located in Montreal’s historic Red-Light District, its story is one of transformation and persistence. Come be part of history and celebrate the park’s global legacy with the skaters who made it what it is.
David Boots
As a skateboarder and filmmaker, David Boots has spent over three decades documenting the vibrant and often turbulent life of Peace Park. His work captures the coexistence of skateboarders, artists, and marginalized communities in the face of urban development and gentrification.
While skating at Peace Park, Boots faced countless challenges—from injuries to repeated confrontations with law enforcement. His commitment to recovery and return to skateboarding led him to film over 200 hours of raw footage, culminating in the acclaimed documentary 'Peace Park', which played a key role in the legalization of skateboarding in the park. The film offers an unfiltered, ground-level view into the lives and struggles of those who call the park home.
Boots’ contribution goes far beyond photography. His work stands as a powerful testament to social justice and urban resilience. Through his lens, we gain a rare insider’s perspective on a community too often overlooked. 'Peace Park: Post Up' offers a chance to experience these authentic narratives and connect with the cultural and skateboarding heartbeat at the centre of the City of Montreal.
Dan Mathieu
Dan Mathieu is a Montreal-based photographer who has been documenting the city’s skateboarding scene since the mid-1990s. After the legendary City Hall spot was shut down, he started spending time at Peace Park—a gritty downtown plaza that became a key gathering place for skaters.
'Post Up' showcases a selection of his photographs taken at Peace Park shot during the early years, capturing the people and atmosphere that have made it a defining space in Montreal skateboarding.
James-Patrick Bouthillier
Based in Montreal, James-Patrick Bouthillier is a tattoo artist with a strong background in fine art, illustration, and graphic design. His work captures the everyday life of Montreal, focusing on the people and moments that make the city unique, often highlighting the vibrant energy of Peace Park. He is particularly drawn to the movement and form of skateboarders, translating their fluid motion onto canvas—a personal passion and recurring theme in his art.