The new University Commons building is a masterclass in modern design, but there’s one feature in particular that’s likely to stop you in your tracks to take in every last detail — a larger-than-life art installation created by Métis artist Christi Belcourt. The piece, “In My Grandmother’s Time,” anchors the atrium, with a wild rose in the centre of the oculus and regional florals and at-risk fauna in vibrant hues radiating outwards. Surrounding the oculus is Christi’s companion piece, “The Celebration,” consisting of four columns completely covered in Métis floral beadwork patterns.
"Christi Belcourt’s art speaks to the healing power of flowers and plants, as well as the knowledge that Métis women historically possessed and continue to possess regarding the land, local resources and medicinal properties of plants to support and heal their communities. Christi’s painting conveys the grandmothers’ message about the importance of loving and respecting the land, as well as recognizing the interrelatedness of all living things, both human and non-human," says Nathalie Kermoal, director of the Rupertsland Centre for Métis Research (RCMR).
The process began in 2018, when the University of Alberta wanted to celebrate their long relationship with the Rupertsland Institute by commissioning an art piece from a Métis artist. Christi was selected by Museums, the Office of the Provost, the Rupertsland Institute and the Faculty of Native Studies. "Her work clearly articulates and communicates Métis visual language,” says Nadia Kurd, curator of the U of A Museums Art Collection. “It draws from Métis beadwork in a contemporary fashion, so I think her work spoke to several people on the committee and aligned with many of the goals for developing this commission,” she adds.
Campus architect Kelly Hopkins was tasked with identifying potential spaces on campus where the commission could be installed, and University Commons was selected. The location was perfect for the piece, acknowledges Nadia, which “grounds that Métis visual culture in a very prominent, central place on campus.”
Since the piece was installed, numerous events have taken place in University Commons, allowing members of the campus community and beyond to appreciate and engage with Christi’s work. “I think having such a beautiful, uplifting work of art in such a prominent area really marks this as a gathering space for people,” says Nadia, who adds that there have also been several workshops and school programming events focused on art.
"It was important for me to have my art at the U of A for a couple of reasons,” says Christi in her artist statement. “The purpose of the commission was to create a permanent visual welcoming for Métis students and to mark the establishment of the endowment fund for Métis students by the Rupertsland Institute. On a personal level, I descend from the Métis community of Lac Ste Anne. The lands on which the university sits are part of my ancestral territory. It was important for me to be able to have a piece that was about remembering my ancestors and particularly my Métis grandmothers and women from my extended family commemorated in this place."
To learn more about Christi’s unique artistic process, watch this video:
Want to paint florals like Christi? Register for this event on August 27, 2026, which features a talk with Christi about the artwork and a painting class inspired by the plants and animals featured in it.