New Pìwànak murals highlight Indigenous culture and science education
Posted on Tuesday, November 4th, 2025
The new Pìwànak — Algonquin Centre for Science and Innovation is designed to provide students a state-of-the-art science education, giving hands-on experience with the same technology they can expect to encounter in the workplace. In addition to the technical side, the Centre is also alive with Indigenous imagery and knowledge.
Pìwànak, meaning “flint” in the Anishinàbe Algonquin language, represents the start of something new. Pìwànak features two large murals, incorporating design elements that have significant meaning to Indigenous culture, with the overall design guided by Brenda Odjick, Lionel Whiteduck, Anita Tenasco and Rene Tenasco. The murals themselves were designed and painted by artist Shalak Attack, with her partner Bruno Smoky of Clandestinos Art assisting her on the larger mural. Read more >
veterans who served in the Canadian Armed Forces. The word for soldier or warrior is shamàganishi. Many took part in major conflicts including the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War and international peacekeeping efforts. 
teachable moment for her interior design students, redefining what it means to learn by doing.