As the iconic Canadian Museum of History building turns 35 this year, the institution will honour the architect Douglas Cardinal, who provided the flowing design that is the signature of the structure on the banks of the Ottawa River.

In the new display, visitors will be able to learn about the evolution of the building through photographs, sketches, models and multiple awards belonging to Cardinal.

“We are so pleased to be offering a special presentation honouring Douglas Cardinal’s visionary idea for this building constructed 35 years ago,” said Caroline Dromaguet, President and CEO. 

“It houses and shares a wealth of community and national stories and, since opening in 1989, have become such a beloved part of our urban landscape that it’s hard to imagine the National Capital Region without them. I am grateful for Douglas’s wisdom, foresight, creativity and enduring commitment to our Museum.”

Cardinal, 90, who is a member of Siksika First Nation in Alberta, has had a decorated career. Recently he worked on the redevelopment and redesign of the Canadian History Hall. More about his life and career can be learned through the museum’s oral history project,Shaping Canada. 

“When I was designing the Museum, I felt that it should be a learning and teaching centre,” said Douglas Cardinal in a media release. “We should learn from the past and not keep repeating our mistakes. We must learn to live in harmony with each other and with our Mother, the Earth.”

The display will be one view until Oct. 6. 

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