A new wooden sculpture has been unveiled at Rondeau Provincial Park as part of a new public art initiative in Chatham-Kent.
The sculpture, created by chainsaw carver and Bothwell resident Mike Winia, was revealed on Thursday in front of Rondeau Joe’s Pub near the entrance to Rondeau Provincial Park. Winia also collaborated with fellow carvers Paul and Jacob Frenette who star in the television series Carver Kings.
Depicting two turtles sitting in a canoe, municipal officials said the art piece celebrates the natural beauty and heritage of the region.
“This carving is not just a beautiful piece of art—it’s a symbol of community pride, partnership and creativity,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff in a news release. “It’s also an interactive piece. We’re encouraging people to stop in, sit in the canoe, take photos, and share them to let people know about the great things happening in Rondeau.”
The installation is the first in a series of 15 planned art pieces that will be located in communities throughout Chatham-Kent over the coming months. Two additional carvings are currently being made and will be unveiled in June in Wallaceburg and Ridgetown.
Funding for the project was allocated through the Hydro One Councillor Ward Funding Program.
