A herd of hope: Bison art installation supports young Manitobans impacted by abuse

A herd of bison sculptures has taken over Roblin Boulevard, raising awareness and support for Toba Centre for Children & Youth and young Manitobans impacted by abuse.

The public art installation, Bison on the Boulevard, is made up of 26 8ft x 5ft concrete bison, all painted by local artists such as Laura Lee Harasym, Zhizhoobii’igaade. Julia Mark and Claire Samson.

The artwork is displayed along Roblin Boulevard between Shaftsbury Boulevard and Assiniboine Park Drive, on the way to Toba Centre, giving children, youth and families on their way to the centre, something beautiful to enjoy.

"The hope for the community is that this installation will spark conversation, raise awareness of the issue of child abuse and Toba Centre, and inspire the community to get involved," said the Toba Centre.

According to the Toba Centre, the inspiration for the bison came from their protective nature, as bison are a symbol of strength and resilience, standing together to protect their young.

"As a community, this is our opportunity to give back what has been taken, to show children they are valued, and that their community is behind them."

Bison on the Boulevard is on display now through to the end of October.