Indigenous Art Featured at Hudson’s Bay building in Downtown Winnipeg

Windows will showcase works by Indigenous artists Peatr Thomas and Glenn Gear

Winnipeg, MB - Economic Development Winnipeg and Hudson’s Bay are excited to announce that after collaboration with community partners, the boards on the windows of the downtown Hudson’s Bay building will come down to reveal a beautiful homage to Indigenous art and culture. The featured art includes replications from Inninew and Anishinabe artist Peatr Thomas and Inuit artist Glenn Gear. The dynamic pieces are currently featured in the Winnipeg Art Gallery’s (WAG) newly opened Qaumajuq. The large art installations flow in panels across the Bay Downtown's storefront windows on Portage Avenue.

"We have all worked hard to find ways to better use the windows on such a significant landmark in Winnipeg. As we reimagine how this iconic building will evolve and look ahead to welcoming back visitors to our city, we wanted to ensure this important downtown space reflected the culture of the city. It sits across the street from the WAG's Qaumajuq, which is also making history by building stronger partnerships and sharing Inuit art and culture with the world. We're thrilled that the Government of Canada, City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba have stepped up with funding to help make this initiative possible," says Dayna Spiring, President & CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg.

Inninew artist Peatr Thomas from the Pimicikamak Territory explains the significance of his featured piece and the hopefulness behind it: "A new sunrise with the new moon. After a time of change and awakening. Turtle Island is new once again, built on truth in the sacred seven ancestor teachings. Ancient knowledge once lost, is taught to us again by Mother Earth in all that she offers."

The hope is that this art installation will draw appreciation from locals and visitors alike as the city promotes tourist attractions and takes another step in the revitalization of Winnipeg's downtown. This is the first phase of the reveal with additional artwork planned on the windows of the western side of the building on Memorial Boulevard.

“As we work with partners on the future of the Hudson’s Bay building in Winnipeg, we are extremely pleased that it can serve as an exhibit space for some of the incredible artists that are shown at the WAG's Qaumajuq. We also hope to showcase additional Indigenous work from First Nations and Métis artists that has important historical and cultural significance to Winnipeg, and to Canada,” added Iain Nairn, President & CEO, Hudson’s Bay.

“Revitalizing a prominent and historic building while celebrating Indigenous art is a welcome way to create connections and begin to rebuild community spirit and the downtown economy. Our government is proud to invest in projects that support thriving communities, vibrant local economies, and culturally rich public gathering spaces in towns and cities across the country.” - The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada

The boards will be removed early morning, Thursday June 10, beginning at approx. 6am and expected to take several hours to complete.

About Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.

Economic Development Winnipeg Inc. (EDW) is the city’s lead economic development agency and champion for local growth. We use expert analysis to highlight the Winnipeg Advantage and prove why we are the best place to live, work and visit. Through the Tourism Winnipeg and YES! Winnipeg business development teams, EDW grows the local economy by attracting business, investment, events, meetings and people to our city. EDW is governed by a private-sector board and driven by the needs of the business community. economicdevelopmentwinnipeg.com

About Hudson’s Bay

Hudson’s Bay is a digital-first purpose-driven retailer helping Canadians live their best style of life. As one of the country’s most iconic brands, Hudson’s Bay operates 88 full-line locations and thebay.com featuring Marketplace -- the 5th largest e-commerce business in Canada. Hudson’s Bay has established a reputation for quality and style through an unrivalled assortment including fashion, designer, home, beauty, food concepts and more. The Hudson’s Bay Rewards program is ranked second in department store loyalty programs in Canada. Hudson’s Bay operates under the HBC brand portfolio. Founded in 1670, HBC is North America’s oldest company. The signature stripes are a registered trademark of HBC.

For further information, please contact:

Eleanor Coopsammy
Corporate Creative Communications Manager
Economic Development Winnipeg Inc.
431-338-2259
eleanor@edwinnipeg.com

Tiffany Bourré
DVP, Communications, PR & Heritage
Hudson’s Bay
tiffany.bourre@hbc.com | 416-571-1301