---
title: >-
  Call for Expressions of Interest: Mi'kmaq Basketry Public Art, Mount Allison
  University
description: >-
  Permanent public art commission for Mi'kmaq basket makers: an indoor suspended
  basketry installation at Mount Allison University's R.P. Bell Library,
  Sackville NB. $100,000 CAD all-inclusive.
url: 'https://www.artsume.com/programs/1ecd1337-69ce-458e-83b1-ef15f3c31c45'
type: program
status: closed
createdAt: '2026-09-03'
updatedAt: '2026-10-08'
programType: Public art
organization: Mount Allison University
organizationUrl: 'https://www.artsume.com/o/mount-allison-university'
deadline: '2026-10-07'
location: >-
  R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning, Mount Allison
  University, Sackville, NB, Canada
isOnline: false
compensationRange: '$100,000 CAD all-inclusive project budget'
disciplines:
  - basketry
  - weaving
  - public art
---

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

**Hosted by:** Mount Allison University

**Type:** Public art | **Location:** R.P. Bell Library Centre for Innovation and Learning, Mount Allison University, Sackville, NB, Canada | **Deadline:** October 7, 2026

## About This Program

> "Mi'kmaq basketry traditions of Mi'kma'ki"

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, Mount Allison University recognizes the deep and enduring relationship between the Mi'kmaq people and these lands and waters.

This commission seeks to honour Mi'kmaq cultural knowledge, artistic excellence, and basketry traditions. Basket weaving is more than an artistic practice; it embodies relationships with the land, intergenerational knowledge, language, community, and the responsibilities that accompany living in relation with place. The selected artwork will serve as a lasting expression of these teachings within one of the university's most significant public spaces.

The project should include: 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.

Artwork proposals are not required at this stage. The successful proponent will work collaboratively with the university to develop the final design. This concept was proposed by an Indigenous Talking Circle consisting of Elders, representatives from various First Nation communities, Indigenous students, Indigenous faculty, and Indigenous design professionals, guided by the Indigenous architectural firm Two Row Architect.

While the rendering illustrates illuminated baskets, artists are not required to incorporate lighting into their design.

## Eligibility & Requirements

- **Geographic Eligibility:** National
- **Disciplines:** basketry, weaving, public art
- **Note:** 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 of the project.

### Additional Requirements

- Expressions of Interest must include:
- Artist résumé or curriculum vitae;
- Expression of interest outlining artistic approach and understanding of Mi’kmaq basketry traditions
- Images of relevant past work with image list;
- Two professional references.

Submissions must not exceed 25 pages total.

## Compensation & Benefits

$100,000 CAD all-inclusive project budget

**Includes:** Commission fee

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.

## Timeline

- **Opens:** September 3, 2026
- **Deadline:** October 7, 2026
- **Program Start:** October 1, 2026

## Contact

**Contact:** Ruth Terrio

**Email:** rterrio@mta.ca

## How to Apply

Apply at: https://mta.ca/about/leadership-and-governance/planning-and-construction/rp-bell-library-centre-innovation-and