Photo Credit: Mosquito Grizzly Bear's Head Lean Man First Nation's Facebook

Following several years in the making, the Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation is opening a new art and interpretive centre.

The First Nation is located near The Ridge, which is south of Battleford on Highway 4.

Alicia Buckley is the General Manager of the Centre. She says construction took place in 2025, and the grand opening is coming up on November 14, complete with Indigenous-inspired BBQ, art stations, vendors, guided tours, and live music.

During regular programming, the centre’s exhibit room will feature ‘Lost Liberties’, an art display about the War Measures Act. It will also include a tribute to Henry Beaudry, a Cree war hero that served in the Second World War, and Chris Chalupak, an artist from nearby Red Pheasant Cree Nation.

She says the new Centre is not only a huge step for tourism in the area, but also for reconciliation.

“Having that sense of belonging for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to come together learn about the history that we all share, and how we can move forward together. There’s going to be a piece for everyone.”

She adds that this is the first opportunity for MGBHLMFN to provide programming for the entire region, calling it a ‘monumental’ development.

“We’re really hoping to expand on what the community has, what the province has, and make it bigger and better. As we go, we’re going to be developing more and more programming, and everything that brings together the community.”

Buckley hopes visitors will leave with an understanding of what MGBHLMFN is all about, a greater knowledge of Indigenous culture, and a feeling of connection and inspiration.

The grand opening takes place on Saturday from 10:00 until 2:00.