Call for Expressions of Interest: Mi’kmaq Basketry Public Art, Mount Allison University

Overview

Mount Allison University invites Mi'kmaq basket makers and Mi'kmaq-led artistic teams to submit Expressions of Interest for the creation of a permanent public artwork celebrating the basketry traditions of Mi'kma'ki for the R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning. Situated within the unceded and ancestral territory of Mi'kma'ki, this commission seeks to honour Mi'kmaq cultural knowledge, artistic excellence, and basketry traditions. The selected artwork will serve as a lasting expression of these teachings within one of the university's most significant public spaces.

Project Context

The R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning is the academic heart of Mount Allison University, welcoming students, faculty, staff, researchers, and community members. As a place dedicated to learning, research, creativity, and collaboration, the library provides an ideal setting for a permanent artwork that reflects the university's commitment to reconciliation, Indigenous knowledge, and respectful relationships.

Project Requirements

• Artistic design and fabrication of a permanent Mi'kmaq basketry installation
• An indoor suspended installation appropriate for a high-traffic public environment
• A design that demonstrates Mi'kmaq basketry traditions, materials, or contemporary interpretations
• Respect for Mi'kmaq cultural protocols and artistic sovereignty
• Durable materials suitable for a minimum design life of 30 years
• Compliance with accessibility, circulation, structural, and life-safety requirements
• Consideration of sustainability and long-term maintenance
• Lighting may be incorporated where appropriate and must comply with applicable codes and certification standards

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: October 7, 2026, 4:00pm AT
• Artistic concept development: October 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027
• Fabrication: Anticipated in 2029
• Final installation completion: 2030

Eligibility

• Applicants must be eligible to work in Canada
• Employees of Mount Allison University are not eligible
• This opportunity is intended for Mi'kmaq artists and Mi'kmaq-led teams with demonstrated knowledge of Mi'kmaq basketry traditions
• Collaborative partnerships with artists from other Wabanaki Nations are welcome where they support and complement the Mi'kmaq-led vision

Compensation

The total project budget is $100,000 CAD (all inclusive) and includes all artist fees, design development, mock-ups, materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and applicable taxes. Only the successful proponent will receive compensation. Mount Allison University will not provide honoraria for Expressions of Interest.

Selection Process

Expressions of Interest will be reviewed by a selection committee including the project Indigenous Talking Circle and members of the project team. Selection will be based on artistic excellence, demonstrated experience, and cultural alignment.