The City works with guest curators and an Art Selection Committee to select works for the rotational public art exhibit space at Inspire. Exhibits include opportunities for Indigenous art submissions, such as:

• Inspire's inaugural exhibit, 'A Breath Beyond' included two Métis artworks:
• 'Wild Rose' - a beadwork on deer hide
• 'Scissor Pocket' a beadwork on satin velvet

Indigenous Veteran George Pambrun was interviewed as part of the artistic development of the Veterans Memorial Project. The artistic panel representing George's story was designed by artist Andrew Holloway.

Read Andrew Holloway's artist statement 

Inspire's exterior public art piece symbolizes the connection between Mother Earth and Father Sky. The seven poles are each adorned with Blackfoot pictographs, representing the seven generations practice and seven local tribes. Artist Adrian Stimson is a member of the Siksika Nation, based in Treaty 7 territory and worked with Elder Myrna Youngman in consultation of the elements included in the piece.

Learn more about From Earth to Sky

Located in Nose Creek Regional Park, these anonymously donated sculptures depict a setting in 1909, when Airdrie was established, with a grandmother sharing her traditional knowledge of local vegetation with her grandchildren. The concept of the sculptures was a collaborative effort between the donor, Elders and Knowledge Keepers and award-winning artists, Don and Shirley Begg, of Studio West Bronze Foundry. 

Learn more about Îethka Stoney Grandmother's Teachings Sculptures

Examples of past opportunities supported by the City include:

Bert Church LIVE Theatre Presented Series: PISUWIN. A Wolastoqiyik Story 

2025

Based on a Wolastoq tale, this multidisciplinary piece reflects on the world's state of disease, illuminating a path to wholeness and rebalance. The project features eight dancers and blends Indigenous storytelling and ballet, redefining this classical form for a diverse, savvy and contemporary audience. Electronic sound, industrial landscapes and digital projection, juxtaposed with Wolastoq visual motifs of the spiritual and natural world, create the Indigenous cosmology within which the story takes place.

Bert Church LIVE Theatre Presented Series: Where have all the buffalo gone?

2025

Where Have All The Buffalo Gone? takes audiences on a moving journey through key moments in Métis history, from the fur trade and the loss of the buffalo to the rise of the Métis Association of Alberta. Featuring heartfelt stories from the Callihoo family and a stunning life-sized buffalo puppet, the performance is a celebration of resilience, love and the deep connection of the Métis people to the buffalo.

Nimihitowin!

2023

An all-ages music and dance performance created and performed by Wild Mint Arts. Nimihitowin! expresses Indigenous culture through Powwow dance, hoop dance and Métis jigging.

Digital installation at Inspire's opening 

2025

Inspire's multi-purpose room J featured an Indigenous digital art installation as part of its opening celebrations. The piece showcased the work of seven visual artists from Treaty 7 Nations, accompanied by an original soundtrack from Elder Lance Scout of the Kainai Nation. 

Indigenous folk music performance at Inspire's opening

2025

Inspire's community celebration included a performance by Indigenous artist, Wendy Walker. Known for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, Wendy blends traditional musical elements with contemporary sounds, creating a unique and engaging experience. Her lyrics often draw upon her heritage, sharing stories and perspectives that resonate with audiences. Through her music, Walker not only entertains but also educates and inspires, bridging cultural understanding.

• Siksika Nation
• Otipemisiwak Métis Government, District 4 (Rockyview District)
• Blackfoot Confederacy
• Piikani Nation
• Kainai Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations