$300000
University of Manitoba Campus at Winnipeg’s Health Science CentreClient: University of Manitoba
Project Completed: Jun 2016
Project Goals: Design and develop outdoor classroom space focused on the teachings of Indigenous traditional medicines. Following the recommendations outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, we researched and consulted with First Nations Elders and medical professionals to ensure the design of the project incorporated authentic Indiginous teachings, traditions, symbolism, and culture.
The main focus of the design is a medicine wheel pathway with a sacred tree in the centre. The medicine wheel is also reflected in the colours of the garden stones surrounding the tree. Raised planter gardens are planted with traditional Indiginous medicinal plants. With the guidance of Elders, medical professionals and students learn about how these plants have been used by the indiginous populations for thousands of years. The goal is to promote cross-cultural understanding that will help improve the service provided to Indiginous communities at the hospital.
In addition to the medicine wheel garden there are four outdoor classroom spaces. Two of the classrooms have built-in seating, shade sails, and an area to hang an outdoor whiteboard. The garden is abundant in native plants, and incorporates the traditional iconography of the Inuit, Métis, and Anishinaabe peoples.
Project Designers
- Byron Rocke
