Right of Way - The Chemong Portage Project installation nears completion

Peterborough, ON – A new public art installation featuring work from Indigenous artists celebrating the traditional Chemong Portage route is currently being installed and will be completed this month.

Right of Way is a commemorative project featuring works by Indigenous artists Tia Cavanagh, David Beaucage Johnson, Yvonne Garbutt, William Kingfisher, Josh Morley and Nuin Tara Wilson.

The City of Peterborough commissioned the artists to create original artwork for vinyl wraps to be installed on traffic signal cabinets and electrical supply boxes located at intersections close to what is thought to be the traditional route of the Chemong Portage. Each artwork represents a traveler on the route. Together, the project tells the story of the portage and makes history visible.   

“Right of Way serves as a powerful bridge between past and present, visually highlighting deep connections to land and space while honouring Indigenous people along the historic Chemong Portage,” said Shelley M. Knott, the City's Advisor, Indigenous Relations. “It invites both residents and visitors to connect with and respect the enduring legacy of this route.”

The route begins at Dalhousie and George streets, and continues north through downtown, crossing intersections along George and Water streets until it reaches Brock Street. At Brock Street it veers west, weaving to Parkhill and Chemong roads. It then follows Chemong Road to Broadway Boulevard.

“Public art transforms everyday spaces into places of meaning and connection. Right of Way beautifies our city and honours the stories and culture of the Indigenous peoples who travelled the Chemong Portage. It’s a celebration of history, told in vivid, modern form, that invites everyone to reflect and engage,” said Councillor Alex Bierk and Councillor Lesley Parnell, City Council’s Community Services co-chairs.

Installation began in September and is expected to be completed in mid-November.

Finishing touches include mounting an information panel and portage map at each intersection. The panel also features links to an audio recording of “The Story of the Chemong Portage” by Gidigaa Miigizi (Doug Williams), read by Anne Taylor of Curve Lake First Nation. The recording is in Anishinaabemowin and English. 

Find more information about the project at peterborough.ca/RightOfWay.

Right of Way is the latest project funded through the City of Peterborough’s Public Art Program.