The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is moving forward with Salmon Stories: Voices of Indian Falls, a community led public art project that will blend sculpture, storytelling, and interactive audio to share the many histories connected to one of the region’s most visited natural spaces.
Created by Nova Scotia artist Ashton Rodenhiser of Mind’s Eye Creative, the installation will feature a large wooden salmon sculpture paired with an onsite audio component. Visitors will be able to hear recorded stories gathered from residents, elders, and individuals with cultural, recreational, and historical ties to Indian Falls.
Over the past several months, Rhodeniser and community story collector David Moser of Legacy Chronicles have been meeting with community members to capture a wide range of perspectives. Stories collected include memories of swimming at the falls, experiences with the salmon run and fishway, and reflections linked to the former Mi’kmaq connected reserve community once located across the river.
“As an artist, my job is to listen first,” Rhodeniser explains. “These stories are shaping every part of this work. The salmon is symbolic, but the heart of the project is the people behind it. With the interactive audio, visitors will be able to hear those voices and understand why Indian Falls holds meaning for so many.”
The Municipality says the project reflects its commitment to inclusive storytelling, cultural visibility, and creating public spaces that support belonging. Engagement with Mi’kmaq knowledge holders and cultural organizations is underway to help ensure the installation reflects the full history of the site.
Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile says the project offers value that goes well beyond its artistic impact.
“Public art has the power to bring people together. Salmon Stories connects us to the history, identity, and lived experiences of our community. The large sculpture is accessible to those who may not travel the trail, and the interactive installation is a way of honouring the stories that shaped Indian Falls and making them available to everyone. That’s an investment in community belonging and in who we are as a Municipality.”
Two upcoming public drop-in sessions are coming up in New Germany at the Anglican Hall Community Cafe on April 23 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and one in Union Square Hall on Cornwall Road from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on April 27. Both will give residents the opportunity to ask questions, share their own stories, and learn more about the artistic vision behind the installation.
Installation of the sculpture and audio component will follow the completion of community engagement and final design work.
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