New Land Acknowledgement Commission by Que Rock arrives at the FSC in Fall 2026

This fall, the COC will unveil the next chapter of our Land Acknowledgement Commissioning Program, and we're delighted to introduce the artist at its centre.

Developed in consultation with the Circle of Artists, the program began in 2022 with where the water meets the land, an immersive sculptural and sound installation by Rebecca Cuddy and Julie McIsaac that has welcomed visitors to the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts ever since.

In September 2026, the COC will unveil a new Land Acknowledgement Commission by Que Rock (Quentin Commanda), an Anishinaabe multidisciplinary artist and cultural educator from Nipissing First Nation. Known for combining traditional teachings with contemporary visual storytelling, Que Rock has created public art projects across Canada that invite connection, learning, and dialogue.

For this commission, Que Rock will create a site-specific installation inspired by the Seven Grandfather Teachings that includes seven original digital artworks as a full-colour window installation in the southwest corner of the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, along with a complementary indoor artwork and timelapse video of the creative process.

"Land acknowledgement is not a singular act, but an ongoing relationship that requires listening, learning, and meaningful collaboration," says Amy Mushinski, Director of Public Affairs and Strategy at the COC. The new commission arrives alongside the world premiere of Empire of Wild by Cherie Dimaline and Ian Cusson, and together these projects reflect our commitment to Indigenous storytelling, artistic collaboration, and relationship-building.

“When people travel all around the world, they’re able to steep themselves in the unique languages and art of each culture, very often through the creation and presence of local art,” says Commanda. “I think we could do so much more to achieve that same level of artistic and cultural representation in Canada…visibility is so important in making sure the world knows my Anishinaabe nation has always been here and always will be. Our presence is important for all Canadians to see, experience and acknowledge.”