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Indigenous Art Installation

Indigenous Art Installation

Through Indigenous art, we aim to tell the story that celebrates the rich history of pioneering Indigenous entrepreneurship in Canada and honour the role of Indigenous entrepreneurs and artists.

Birch Bark Canoes and the History of Indigenous Entrepreneurship

Through the story of birch bark canoes, we hope to honour the role that Indigenous entrepreneurs have played in shaping Canada鈥檚 economic history.

The canoe building process

The canoe building process started on June  24 and finished on September 5, working four days per week.

Todd Labrador's hand holding tree roots

Harvested and split 700 plus feet of spruce roots

Todd Labrador's hand at work

38 cedar canoe ribs & canoe gunwales

Todd Labrador's Hands

Harvested birch bark & collected hardwood for the wooden pegs

Birch Bark Canoes - A conversation with Todd Labrador

Todd Labrador emphasizes that canoe building requires intergenerational knowledge passed down through hands-on experience, observation and respect for natural materials like birch bark, spruce root and cedar. Every part of the canoe is intentionally chosen and shaped, reflecting a deep understanding of the land and an innovative approach to engineering with sustainable resources. 

 All images 漏 2021 Todd Labrador and Melissa Labrador.  

 Contact:

Sana Mulji, Senior Advisor, External Relations and Inclusion at sana.mulji@torontomu.ca