Ottawa, May 21, 2009 - It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Arthur Erickson, one of Canada's most renowned architects.
Mr. Erickson's architectural prowess helped shape the city of Vancouver and left its stamp on cities around the world. In British Columbia alone, his works include the award-winning design for Simon Fraser University, the University of British Columbia's Museum of Anthropology, and the Provincial Law Courts in Downtown Vancouver. He also designed the Bank of Canada in Ottawa, Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto, the Canadian Chancery in Washington, D.C., the San Diego Convention Center, and the Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington.
Among the many prestigious awards he received for his innovative design work, Mr. Erickson was the first Canadian to receive the Gold Medal from the American Institute of Architects, in 1986. As well, he became an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1973, and a Companion of the Order of Canada in 1981.
On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I extend our deepest sympathy to Mr. Erickson's family and friends.
Information:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
