This year, we’re marking an important milestone with a beautiful piece of art.
We’re unveiling a new graphic for Winnipeg’s 150th anniversary which represents our city as we know it, while acknowledging the importance of our Indigenous roots.
In anticipation of Winnipeg 150, we worked with a local artist, Jordan Stranger of Totem Doodem.
Stranger’s work is deeply rooted in the traditions within contemporary Indigenous culture, and he uses his life experiences and spiritual practice learned through Ojibwe teachings to drive his artistic passions.
"Creating a graphic for the city that I grew up in was a huge honour,” said Stranger.
“I hope this graphic can be a symbol for growth and reflection on what Winnipeg has to offer and what we wish to accomplish."
The graphic features the current footprint of the City of Winnipeg over top a turtle shell to represent Turtle Island.
The Red and Assiniboine rivers are displayed, within which we see the image of a woman, meant to represent Mother Earth.
Small leaves can be seen throughout the graphic, signifying crops including sage and tobacco. It also includes an image of a crocus, which is part of the City crest. Seven trees represent the seven sacred teachings.
The graphic also includes a tribute to our varied seasons including sun and snow, and a bright north star.
The Winnipeg 150 graphic will start to appear in prominent locations around the city, including on banners outside City Hall. The City is also working with The Forks Trading Company to make Winnipeg 150 merchandise available for purchase in their storefront and online in the near future.
For more information about this significant milestone, visit winnipeg.ca/150years.