Integrating Atikamekw culture into the architectural design of the new federal building in Shawinigan

Public Services and Procurement Canada is delivering on the Government of Canada’s commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. An Indigenous artwork and signage inspired by symbols of significance in Atikamekw culture will be incorporated into the design of the new federal building in Shawinigan.

Paddle to the heart of Atikamekw culture

The artwork is being created in partnership with the Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw and artists Eruoma Awashish, Jacques Newashish, Raymond Weizineau and Meky Ottawa. The artwork consists of 3 parts: a stately canoe, a river, and intricately carved oars. It will be installed over the coming months.

Visitors will be able to sit in the canoe, a  stately rabaska, at the centre of the artwork. The canoe is an important symbol of the Atikamekw Nehirowisiwok culture. It evokes the Atikamekw people’s connection to nature, mastery of traditional ancestral skills and the richness of their culture.

A river will be painted in the centre of the main outdoor walkway. It will wind its way organically, gradually narrowing towards the entrance and inviting visitors to follow its flow. Partially submerged at the edge of the symbolic river, the canoe will create the illusion of being docked.

Stars, orbs and sparkles will create light reflections on the water’s surface. Three types of fish will swim together and symbolize the 3 Atikamekw communities: Manawan, Opitciwan and Wemotaci. Flowers will represent medicine, life, women, and the four directions. The words “Miro mickakw,” meaning “safe travels” in Atikamekw, will be engraved at the start of the path.

To complete the scene, 8 wooden oars with decorative patterns will be hung in the building’s lobby, encouraging visitors to explore the artwork in all its splendour.

Signage highlighting the 6 seasons of the Atikamekw

The interior design of each of the building’s 6 sections will highlight the Atikamekw seasons:

• Pre-spring (Sikon)
• Spring (Miroskimin)
• Summer (Nipin)
• Fall (Takwakin)
• Pre-winter (Pitcipipon)
• Winter (Pipon)