September 25, 2026
More than 150 years ago, the Grey Nuns arrived in St. Boniface by canoe, helping lay the foundation for what would become St. Boniface Hospital.
Today, you can find a nod to that history on the front of the Hospital.
Created by muralist Emmanuel Jarus, the new large-scale mural along Taché Avenue stretches more than 60 feet high and highlights the history that has shaped St. Boniface. Tucked into the artwork is a small canoe inspired by the Grey Nuns journey, surrounded by elements of the Red River Valley’s natural landscape.
Your kindness helped make this mural possible, adding a new piece of art to the community.
“This mural is a wonderful example of the impact of Arts at St. B., helping create a welcoming, healing environment for patients, families, staff, and visitors,” said Karen Fowler, President & CEO of St. Boniface Hospital Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to our donors, whose generosity helps bring initiatives like this to life and supports spaces that foster comfort and compassion.”
Photos by Anthony Urso
A community partnership
The Higher Learning Foundation first brought public art to the Hospital through the “Thank You Trades” mural, which overlooks the river from the back of the building. Continuing that collaboration, the Higher Learning Foundation, St. Boniface Hospital, and St. Boniface Hospital Foundation came together to create a second mural, this time along Taché Avenue.
The mural draws inspiration from nature, wildlife, and the landscape that existed before St. Boniface Hospital was built.
“We live in the Red River Valley, and the Red River Valley lives in all of us,” said Paul Turenne, Senior Corporate Affairs and Engagement Officer at St. Boniface Hospital. “This mural reflects our connection to the land and our commitment to creating spaces that support healing, wellbeing and a sense of community.”
This piece is one of Manitoba’s largest art installations and the first large-scale mural in St. Boniface, making a bold new addition to the neighbourhood.
“We hope this mural is the beginning of a larger conversation about the role public art can play in beautifying and bringing communities together,” said Trisha Kulathungam of the Higher Learning Foundation.
The mural is an example of what your generosity can help make possible, bringing more art and creativity to the Hospital. It’s a new part of the Hospital, but it carries pieces of its past with it. So next time you’re along Taché Avenue, don’t forget to look up!