Parks Canada has taken down the construction fencing surrounding the Jasper Indigenous Exhibit near the Visitor Information Centre.
Visitors and residents are now encouraged to explore the exhibit “to connect with the rich history and artistry of the Indigenous communities.”
“While a few areas remain fenced off as finishing touches are completed, you can now stroll through the exhibit and learn more about the Indigenous connections to Jasper National Park,” according to a media statement.
The exhibit aims to increase public awareness and understanding of Indigenous connections to the area and the forced removal of Indigenous people from the land that became Jasper National Park.
For over a decade, Jasper National Park worked with representatives from over 20 Indigenous partner communities to conceptualize, design and construct this exhibit.
The exhibit includes landscaping, walkways, seating and artwork. Throughout the exhibit, a mixture of community and artist panels are displayed.
The main art installation features a large bronze sculpture of an eagle landing on a sphere, created by sculptor Lionel Peyachew. Words from six different Indigenous languages are displayed on the sphere. Below it is a representation of beaded artwork created by Lisa Shepherd and Kristi Bridgeman, with the original on display in the Visitor Information Centre.
Beginning in 2021, construction was expected to wrap up in the spring or summer of 2022 but was repeatedly delayed. The grand opening, previously scheduled for September this year, was postponed due to the wildfire.
“We thank Indigenous partners for their immense contributions to this exhibit and thank everyone for their understanding as construction nears completion,” the statement added.
Parks Canada will reschedule the grand opening for a future date in 2025.
