The powwow arbour on Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation recently added two more awards to its growing list of accomplishments. These new honours include the 2026 Governor General’s Medal in Architecture presented by the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and the Canadian Council for the Arts. As well an A+ Award from international portfolio database Architizer. “Because it has no centre pole for structure, the architects had to design this marvelous facility using a unique suspension system,” said Myke Agecoutay, a headman from Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation. “That particular suspension system is what has garnered us so much attention.” In 2021, a committee composed of elders, nation staff and powwow enthusiasts came together to begin forming ideas of what their future arbour could look like. “When we first were thinking of a concept, we thought about a cheaper, not-so-big arbour like this,” said Melissa Tavita, chief of Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation. “To see it come to fruition, the plans and details that went into it, to see it win international awards — makes our hearts feel good.” The circular geometry of the structure is another highlight that drew attention to the arbour. In 2022-23, the arbour won four awards, including two from the World Architecture Festival. Muscowpetung held its second annual traditional powwow Aug. 18-20. In the past, the Nation has held powwows at Kinookimaw Beach. Nation members previously had to visit other places if they wanted to enjoy a powwow, something that leadership wanted to change with the arbour’s construction. “It’s beautiful to have this arbour. I feel proud this building brings our people together from all directions,” said Lillian Campbell, a member of the Muscowpetung Pow Wow Committee. Angeline Anaquod is a member of Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation. She is also grateful for the abour and feels proud of the First Nation’s past and present leadership. “Having the arbour here brings connection back to our families, it’s a blessing. We get to gather,” said Anaquod. The arbour will be used for other cultural events throughout the year, including youth programming. Oxbow Architecture with Richard Kroeker served as the architects of the Muscowpetung Powwow Arbour. The structure can host up to 2,500 people, including 1,000 powwow dancers.
