It was a day to honour the ancestors, nourish the spirit of the artworks at the WAG, so that spirit could be brought into the entire building—each room and gallery space—allowing for a safe opening. It laid the groundwork for continued ceremony and the ongoing spiritual care the art and building will receive. This special day, generously supported by the Manitoba Arts Council honoured the care and commitment that has been put into creating Qaumajuq, and the Indigenous knowledge it holds.
A qulliq was lit, Sacred Pipes were lifted and an Eagle Whistle was blown, some of the most powerful traditions from the first people of this territory, to invite the spirits to join participants in ceremony. Prayers were said with the sacred medicines for the protection of the building, the artworks and their spirits, and everyone who comes through the doors. The WAG is very grateful for the prayers of Dene ceremonial leader Victor Tssessaze and his son Daylan, Dakota Grandfather Wanbdi Wakita and Grandmother Pahan Pte San Win, Anishinaabe Elder Dr. Mary Courchene, Inuit Elders Martha Peet and Joachim Ayaruak, Métis Elder Marcella Vezina, Chief Dennis Meeches, Jolene Mercer, and OjiCree Ceremonial Leader Byron Beardy and his sons Jayden and Jackson III.