A new page in the history of the Plains of Abraham: Two artworks by First Nations artists installed on Cap Diamant

Québec City, Quebec, September 30, 2024 – On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, The National Battlefields Commission is proud to unveil two works by First Nations artists in a new installation on Cap Diamant. The beauty of the creations by Wendat artist Ludovic Boney and Haida artist 7IDANsuu Chief James Hart echoes the extraordinary vistas of the site steeped in a rich history. Culturally important plants and a symbolic fireplace enliven the space and create a site for dialogue that is inspiring and unifying, to which interpretative panels will be added.

Both works highlight Indigenous cultures and present a unique opportunity to build bridges between nations, bringing Eastern and Western Canada together through art. Ludovic Boney’s sculpture Remembering Through Beads (Des perles en mémoire) is made up of a series of rings representing wampum beads. Traditionally made from seashells, these tubular purple and white beads can be strung together to form belts or woven necklaces. These items were ritually exchanged to seal diplomatic alliances between nations or to inscribe them in memory. “These wampum beads placed on the ground tell an everlasting story that is reborn again and again,” the artist explained. “It is the vast and enduring memory of the Ancestors.”

“Remembering Through Beads is a tribute to our ancestors who, since time immemorial, have been the guardians of the land and waters of our magnificent territory, the Nionwentsïo,” said Rémy Vincent, Grand Chief of the Wendat Nation. Thanks to this majestic work by Ludovic Boney, visitors to Cap Diamant will now be able to learn more about the Wendat Nation and its rich history, at a site that invites discussion and dialogue.”

Ludovic Boney’s work is in dialogue with 7IDANsuu James Hart’s The 3 Watchmen, an exceptional donation from Canadian philanthropist Michael Audain. The six-metre bronze sculpture depicts three sentinels standing guard atop the totem poles that stand in the villages of the Haida Gwaii archipelago. Seated back-to-back, these watchmen represent the legendary guardians of the Haida Nation. Their hats have four rings, which is a symbol of good luck and an important number for the Nation. “The watchmen not only look out for danger in this world but in the spirit world as well, day or night, summer or winter, sun or rain,” explained the artist. “They are there for us. Thanks to Michael Audain and The National Battlefields Commission for bringing West to East and to the Wendat whose ancestral territory this is.”

“As a long-time fan of Chief Hart’s art and the compelling messages about life and the environment conveyed in his monumental works,” Michael Audain explains, “my family and I are delighted to collaborate with the Wendat Nation and Ludovic Boney on this important cultural installation. We consider Hart’s bronze sculpture a gift to the people of Quebec, from those of us who dwell in British Columbia.”

The creation of the new space on Cap Diamant, where these two majestic works are displayed, represents a major initiative for the Commission. It is its most significant acquisition of works since the Joan of Arc statue was donated in 1938. The installation adds new stops on the interpretive tour taken by the park’s many users and tourists and is a fitting complement to its other monuments. “Some major gifts, such as the Joan of Arc statue, were donated during the early days of the Commission,” says Jean Robert, Chair of the Commission’s board of directors. "Today, this new gift marks a milestone in the Commission’s history. My sincere thanks to Michael Audain for his extremely generous contribution to the heritage of the Plains, as well as all our partners who made this inspiring project possible.”

The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage goes on to say:

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, our national heritage has become even fuller with the installation of these magnificent Indigenous works of art, which create a new space where we can come together in dialogue and reflection. It is with deep gratitude that we celebrate this project, which was made possible by a major donation and conscientious work in co-creation.

The installation will be completed in spring 2025 with the natural heritage component. This will consist of a choice of significant plants that will be guided by the Wendat Nation. Interpretive panels will also enhance the visitor experience. This new space will add another major site to the park, showcasing the magnificence of the works while respecting the natural and historic character of the area. A complete mediation program will be available on site and online to help visitors learn about the symbolism of the works and their connection to the First Nations.

About the National Battlefields Commission

The Battlefields Park is Canada’s leading national historic park, notably including the Plains of Abraham and Des Braves Park. Since 1908 the National Battlefields Commission, an agency of the Canadian government, has striven to preserve and develop this site that brings so many people together. All year long, it offers a variety of activities for those who wish to explore the park and its history.