Project

Canadian Headquarters

The Lumiere Group was tasked with featuring artists from across all provinces of Canada for Microsoft’s premier Canadian operations hub, in particular artworks created by First Nations and Indigenous artists. We worked with artists who employed an array of media and materials, and the featured artwork is a brilliant mural incorporating elements of both traditional and industrial design by Mi’kmaq artist Jordan Bennett.  

Details

Location:
Toronto, Canada
Project Type:
Mural Commission and Artwork Acquisition
Client:
Microsoft Corporation
Services Provided:
Curatorial Guidance, Project Management and Logistics

Highlights

  • Conducted remote research into Indigenous contemporary artists of Canada to identify and recruit a diverse roster 

 

  • Supported the client in building relationships with the local artistic community 

 

  • Managed a local vendor to design custom mounts that aligned with client’s aesthetic goals 

 

  • Advised on custom-built case designed to feature small sculptural artworks 

 

  • Coordinated all Toronto-based vendors, including framing, handling, and transit 

Overview

In 2019, The Lumiere Group consulted with Microsoft on their new Canadian Headquarters. Due to the location’s role as a national hub, the client requested artists and artwork representing all provinces and territories of Canada, placing significant importance on representing the First Nations and Indigenous communities. We conducted significant research based on this curatorial brief, building on existing knowledge of Canadian artists. Our team guided the acquisition of numerous 2D and 3D artworks and led a commissioned mural project by artist Jordan Bennett.

Because this work occurred during Covid-19 pandemic restrictions and an international border closure, our team worked remotely with artists, galleries, frame shops, and other stakeholders throughout the project. Despite challenges such as supply chain delays, our team constructed a custom solution for displaying small sculptures safely within the client’s unique shelving system. To complete the art installation, The Lumiere Group worked through proxies and remotely managed a multi-phased process to the client’s satisfaction, ensuring that the portable artworks and mural were delivered safely and in accordance with the client’s desired timeline.  

"The Lumiere Group paved the way for my first big public art commission at Microsoft. I had never worked with a project management team before, and it could have been intimidating. But they guided me every step of the way with expertise and enthusiasm. They’re fantastic! "
- Jaq Chartier, Artist
  • 1/1: Abanico by Carlos Rosales-Silva, courtesy of the Microsoft Art Collection.

Next Project:

Atlantic Yards Campus

Atlanta, Georgia | Outdoor Sculpture Commission and Art Acquisition

Microsoft converted a former railway station into a showcase location for their Atlanta headquarters. With an emphasis on local and regional artists, our team supported the acquisition of 101 artworks, including five interior murals and one monumental sculpture commission. The Lumiere Group worked with multiple stakeholders throughout the new construction effort, including executives, architects, designers, and employee resource groups to realize the project.

View Project