New Indigenous-led exhibit opening at Crawford Lake Conservation Area

Conservation Halton is opening a new Indigenous-led exhibit at Crawford Lake Conservation Area that invites visitors to experience the lake as a living storyteller.

Spirit of the Lake launches at the Deer Clan Longhouse Gallery and features the work of four Indigenous artists alongside an immersive holographic experience. The exhibit centres on Crawford Lake’s rare meromictic waters, which preserve centuries of environmental and cultural history, and explores the deep connections between land, water, culture, and community from Indigenous perspectives.

The exhibition includes artworks by Shayde Sandy (Life On Crawford Lake), Kelly Greene (She Reveals Her Knowledge and Sings for Healing), Catherine Tammaro (Awatǫ́:mętsǫ́:gyaʔ – She, the Land Made), and Mariah Alexander (Echoes Beneath the Surface). Collectively, the pieces highlight Indigenous knowledge systems, stewardship, and enduring relationships with the land. Visitors can also take part in a new interactive holographic experience featuring insights from Elders, scientists, and park staff.

“Spirit of the Lake brings together art, story, and place, offering visitors a meaningful opportunity to experience the lake as a living storyteller,” says Leeanne Doxtator, Indigenous Education Coordinator with Conservation Halton.

Federal funding support was provided in part through FedDev Ontario and the In The Spirit Giving Foundation.

Spirit of the Lake runs weekends and holidays from Sunday, February 1st to Sunday, June 28th, at Crawford Lake Conservation Area, with the Deer Clan Longhouse open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during exhibit dates.