A Heart Garden display featuring colorful, handwritten messages on heart-shaped cutouts planted on thin poles in the soil. The messages, written by different individuals, emphasize themes of kindness, hope, respect, reconciliation, and equality. Some hearts include drawings, such as stick figures and flowers, while others contain heartfelt pledges and reflections on history and relationships. A white house with windows is visible in the background, adding to the community-oriented atmosphere of the installation.

The Rideau Hall Foundation, in partnership with the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General, is inviting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists to submit proposals to design heart-shaped sculptures for a permanent Heart Garden at Rideau Hall. This initiative celebrates Indigenous cultures and promotes reconciliation by creating a dedicated space for reflection, recognition, and community engagement.

Project Overview

Three Indigenous artists—one from each recognized Indigenous group in Canada—will be selected to create unique heart sculptures. These sculptures will be displayed near the Visitor Centre at Rideau Hall, where they will be a focal point for visitors. The Heart Garden will also feature local Indigenous plants and seasonal paper hearts crafted by visitors from June 21 to September 30.

Sculpture Requirements

Artists should consider the following guidelines when developing their designs:

  • Shape and Size: Each sculpture must be heart-shaped, approximately 30 cm in height and width. The depth is flexible based on the artist’s vision.
  • Mounting: The back of the sculpture should have a flat surface to allow for secure installation.
  • Durability: Materials must be weather-resistant to withstand outdoor conditions year-round.

Compensation for Artists

Each selected artist will receive $15,000 CAD (plus applicable taxes) to cover materials, production, and time.

Submission Guidelines

Artists interested in applying should prepare a proposal that includes:

  1. Contact Information & Biography – A one-page document with a brief background.
  2. Portfolio – Between two to six examples of previous work, preferably sculptural pieces.
  3. Design Concept – A written description and/or sketches of the proposed heart sculpture, including material details and artistic inspiration.

All proposals must be submitted in a single PDF document.

How to Submit Your Proposal

For full details, download the Request for Proposal (RFP) document here:
➡️ Heart Garden Artist Call – RFP (PDF)

Questions and Contact Information

If you have any questions, email heart.coeur@rhf-frh.ca before February 28, 2025, at 5 PM PST. Answers to all inquiries will be provided by March 7, 2025.

About the Rideau Hall Foundation

The Rideau Hall Foundation is a national charitable organization that works to amplify the impact of the Governor General’s initiatives. It focuses on community engagement, democracy, and reconciliation to help build a stronger Canada.

To learn more about the foundation and its work, visit rhf-frh.ca.

This is an exciting opportunity for Indigenous artists to leave a lasting cultural imprint at Rideau Hall. Please share this opportunity widely to ensure broad participation.