Discover Cree Heritage & Indigenous Art in Alberta

The Cultural Museum: 

A Window to Ancestral Wisdom

The Saddle Lake Cultural Museum serves as a modern-day showcase, displaying an impressive collection of photographs and artifacts that tell the story of the Cree nation's ancestral past. 

This cultural treasure trove captures the historical struggles and remarkable achievements of the Cree people throughout their journey, offering visitors a poignant tribute to generations of Indigenous knowledge, artistry, and perseverance.

The museum's carefully curated displays reveal the depth of traditional Cree craftsmanship—from intricately beaded regalia and ceremonial items to tools and artwork that demonstrate the sophisticated artistic traditions passed down through countless generations. Each artifact speaks to the ingenuity and creative spirit that has defined Saddle Lake Cree Nation for centuries.

The Ayiwakes Cultural Centre: Living Culture in Action

Complementing the museum, the Ayiwakes Cultural Centre (located at 404a 50th Street) serves as a dynamic hub where culture comes alive. 

With a 4.3-star rating from community members and visitors alike, this facility represents the beating heart of contemporary Indigenous cultural expression. The centre hosts powwows, cultural events, and 

educational programs that ensure Cree traditions continue to flourish in the modern world.

A Legacy of Creative Excellence

Saddle Lake Cree Nation's commitment to creativity extends far 

beyond its cultural institutions. The community has produced internationally recognized artists who carry their heritage onto global stages. Stewart Steinhauer, the nation's celebrated sculptor, has created monumental works that grace public spaces across Canada, like this one near his studio, whileWanda Dalla Costa, the first First Nations woman architect licensed in Canada, revolutionizes contemporary design through  Indigenous architectural principles.

This creative excellence isn't coincidental—it flows from a community deeply rooted in cultural education and pride in identity. The nation's Cultural Education Department emphasizes "connection with cultural roots and traditional past," fostering an environment where artistic expression thrives as both cultural preservation and contemporary innovation.

Saddle Lake Cree Nation Ayiwakes Cultural Centre