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The Portrait Gallery of Canada Celebrates the Year of the Métis Nation in Winnipeg, Manitoba

For immediate release

Winnipeg, Manitoba, November 16, 2010 — Today, Library and Archives Canada, in collaboration with The Forks, has officially launched the Portraits in the Street: Year of the Métis Nation installation in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Developed by the Portrait Gallery of Canada, a program of Library and Archives Canada, this outdoor installation commemorates the 125^th anniversary of the Northwest Resistance and the hanging of Métis leader Louis Riel.

"We are honoured to recognize the significant contributions of the Métis Nation in shaping this country," said Dr. Daniel J. Caron, Librarian and Archivist of Canada. "This installation demonstrates Library and Archives Canada’s ability to reach Canadians from coast to coast to coast in innovative ways through its Portrait Gallery of Canada program".

Featuring 14 high-quality reproductions of selected works from the national portrait collection placed on the exterior of The Forks Market building and historic rail cars, the installation celebrates the unique history and culture of the Métis Nation and their significant contributions to Canada. The portraits tell the story of Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont, as well as citizens whose lives and actions have shaped this country.

"Given the unique history of The Forks site and the 100 year old Forks Market building, we immediately said yes to showcasing these important works," said Paul Jordan, Chief Operating Officer of The Forks. "These portraits provide a glimpse into a period of time that was very important to The Forks, Winnipeg and Western Canada. We invite everyone to take the time to view them in this very unique and accessible way".

Portraits in the Street: Year of the Métis Nation is on display at The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from November 12, 2010 to January 10, 2011. An online exhibition can also be viewed on the Library and Archives Canada website. For more information, please visit: www.bac-lac.gc.ca/eng/portrait-portal/Pages/portrait-portal.aspx?selected=1.

The Government of Canada has allocated $3.5 million annually to Library and Archives Canada, to give Canadians the opportunity to view their national portrait collection through travelling exhibitions and other public programs across the country.

Library and Archives Canada

The mandate of Library and Archives Canada is to preserve the documentary heritage of Canada for the benefit of present and future generations, and to be a source of enduring knowledge accessible to all, thereby contributing to the cultural, social and economic advancement of Canada. Library and Archives Canada also facilitates co-operation among communities involved in the acquisition, preservation and diffusion of knowledge, and serves as the continuing memory of the Government of Canada and its institutions.

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