Douglas Cardinal and the Canadian Museum of History

Special Display

Thirty-five years ago, on June 29, 1989, the Canadian Museum of History (the Canadian Museum of Civilization at the time) opened the door of its iconic new building for the very first time. The architect of the complex, Douglas Cardinal, blended his own Indigenous teachings and knowledge with cutting-edge design and building technologies to create a striking architectural masterpiece.

Discover this world-renowned architect through an exploration of his early life, his first design projects, his vision for the Museum’s building, and his global contributions. The display is oriented around the directions of the Medicine Wheel, which has informed so much of his life and work.

Douglas Cardinal, who recently turned 90, continues to design and innovate. He has worked on numerous inspiring and groundbreaking projects across Canada and abroad.

This special presentation has been developed to mark the milestones of Mr. Cardinal’s 90th birthday and the 35^th anniversary of the Museum building.

You can also learn more about Douglas Cardinal’s life and career through the Museum’s new and captivating oral history project, Shaping Canada, which features interviews with influential public figures who had a demonstrable and extraordinary impact on contemporary Canada.