A design concept by Winnipeg artists has won a contest to create a LGBTQ2+ National Monument. The concept, known as “Thunderhead” is to be built in downtown Ottawa.
This design draws on the symbolism of a thunderhead cloud, which embodies the strength, activism and hope of LGBTQ2+ communities. It will be a lasting testimony to the courage and humanity of those who were harmed by the LGBT Purge, homophobic and transphobic laws and norms, and Canada’s colonial history. Elements include a sculpture creating the imprint of a thunderhead cloud in mirrored tile, a pathway through a landscaped park which traces the history of LGBTQ2+ people in Canada and a healing circle ringed with stones hand-picked by Two-Spirit Elders. The monument surroundings will allow for large gatherings, performances and places for quiet reflection.
“Thunderhead” was conceived by a team based in Winnipeg including Liz Wreford, Peter Sampson, and Taylor LaRocque of Public City; visual artists Shawna Dempsey and Lorri Millan; and Albert McLeod, Indigenous and Two-Spirited People subject-matter expert and advisor.
The winning design was selected by a jury evaluating the five finalist designs against criteria identified in the Request for Proposals. As part of their deliberations, the jury also considered the results of an online survey open to stakeholders and the public, as well as feedback received from the Monument’s Indigenous Circle participants and the Monument Advisory Committee, which includes LGBT Purge survivors and affected community members.
