Call for Expressions of Interest: Indigenous Art Installation at Toronto Zoo

Overview

The Toronto Zoo seeks an Indigenous artist to create a permanent art installation in The Hive, a gathering space within the Academic Building of the Zoo's new Community Conservation Centre, scheduled to officially open in early 2027. The installation will acknowledge Indigenous People on the land, honour Indigenous ways of knowing, and reflect the interconnectivity of all life with a focus on Canadian Species at Risk.

Project Context

The Community Conservation Centre consists of two Net Zero buildings. The Guest Services Building features a river otter habitat, Blanding's turtle Headstarting program, retail space, rooftop atrium, and a welcome garden. The Academic Building contains four classrooms, four laboratories, offices, and meeting space. The Hive gathering space will be a place for conversation, community building, and quiet reflection, and will feature an interpretive panel created in partnership with an Anishnaabe knowledge keeper.

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: October 31, 2026, 5pm ET
• Expected Completion and Installation: Summer 2027

Eligibility

• Artists must be eligible to work in Canada
• Artist should be from Anishnaabe, Haudenosaunee, or Wendat communities connected to the lands where the Zoo is located

Project Requirements

The artwork must create a lasting acknowledgment of Indigenous People on the land historically and contemporaneously; embody the Zoo's 'Guardians of Wild' brand and mission; reflect interconnectivity of all life—animals, land, water, and people—with focus on Canadian Species at Risk; be visually appealing during daytime and evenings; use durable and low-maintenance materials; ensure public accessibility and safety including tactile and visual considerations; and integrate natural lighting, shadow, and nighttime visibility.

Project Budget

The total project budget is $150,000 CAD (all-inclusive), covering all costs associated with the project including artist fees, materials and supplies, fabrication, delivery, installation, travel, and taxes.

Submission Requirements

Expressions of Interest must include: artist résumé or curriculum vitae; a written reflection on conceptual direction and how Indigenous values, teachings, or protocols shape the work; sketches, drawings, precedent images, or models illustrating approach and experience; notes on fabrication and installation needs (materials, collaborators, site integration requirements); and two professional references. Submissions must not exceed 25 pages in total.

Selection Process

Expressions of Interest will be reviewed by a selection committee including Zoo staff, select partners, and representatives from the Zoo's Indigenous Advisory Circle. Selection will be based on artistic excellence, demonstrated experience with similar projects, and previous work reflective of Indigenous knowledge systems aligned with the project vision.

How to Submit

Submit proposals digitally to Jennifer Franks, Director of Indigenous Relations, at [email protected]

Contact Information

• Jennifer Franks, Director of Indigenous Relations: [email protected]
• Maria Franke, Director of Applied Conservation: [email protected]
• Toronto Zoo, 2000 Meadowvale Road, Toronto, ON M1B 5K7
• www.torontozoo.com