Zasaan

Zasaan, a commissioned outdoor sculpture by renowned artist Barry Ace, marks SAW’s 50th anniversary in 2023. Installed on the portico, this illuminated artwork will grace Arts Court’s façade for two years. Zasaan, meaning “nest” in Anishinaabemowin, features four Bneswag (Thunderbirds) standing in a protective circle, symbolising the four directions, the sacred circle, and the nurturing of artists. This is Ace’s first commissioned sculpture, blending his signature electronic components and circuit boards. Situated on the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe peoples, SAW has long been a hub for Indigenous art. Recently, SAW launched the Nordic Lab, an Indigenous-led space showcasing artists from Canada and the circumpolar world.