January 14, 2025

The Powerful Stories our Buildings Tell: Murals at 650 Burrows Avenue

On Tuesday, January 14th, a Winnipeg Free Press article featured a set of two new mural panels that were recently unveiled at Nidinawemaaganag Endaawaad Inc. (Ndinawe) at 650 Burrows.

The building formerly known as Robertson House was built in 1911 alongside the neighbouring Robertson Memorial Presbyterian Church, both designed by John Hamilton Gordon Russell. The building has a long history of community service. It was originally used by the church for Church recreational clubs and served various urban indigenous organizations through the end of the 20th century.

Since 2021, the former Robertson House has been occupied by Ndinawe, a not-for-profit organization established in 1993, dedicated to helping at-risk youth in Winnipeg. The neighbouring 1911 church is now the Springs Inner-City Church.

The two new murals that sit on each side of the front door were created by Manitoba artist, Jedrick Thorassie. The dark and light contrast of the two pieces represent the artists’ own experience in the foster care system, and his hope for the future of Indigenous youth.

The artwork is a meaningful addition to a heritage building with a strong history and an important cause, bringing well-deserved attention to the necessary work being done at Ndinawe. We are inspired to see these vibrant artworks, bringing important stories to life.

*featured photo credit: Gordon Goldsborough via Manitoba Historical Society

Read more:

Winnipeg Free Press – “Hope a significant element in Indigenous artist’s dark past-brighter future mural”

CBC News – “Self-taught artist from northern Manitoba unveils new mural in Winnipeg’s North End”

Ndinawemaaganag Endaawaad Inc. – “About us”