Secwepemc landmark project moves ahead with new grant funding

The Secwepémc Landmarks project to install sculptures and interpretive panels in various locations throughout the Thompson-Okanagan is receiving nearly $300,000 in grants to move the project ahead.

Six more sculptures are headed for the Enderby and Chase areas, thanks to a grant from the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association of $170,000 and another $123,000 from the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program, according to a news release from the Shuswap Trail Alliance.

This is phase two of the landmark project, a joint effort through collaboration between Splatsin, Neskonlith, Adams Lake and Little Shuswap Lake bands.

By installing sculptures and signage around lakes in Secwepémc territory, the project is aimed at highlighting traditional stories, voices and relationships with the landscape from Secwepémc communities.

Eight sculptures and interpretive panels have already been designed and will be installed around Shuswap Lake. Students from five classes in different schools also carved 100 trailhead posts for the area.

Seven artists of both Secwepémc and non-Indigenous backgrounds have worked on the project to design and create works for the landmark project, guided by Secwepémc Elders from the four Indigenous communities.

The first of the landmarks for the project will be installed near the wharf at Salmon Arm's Marine Park.

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