Chatham-Kent's wood carving sculpture initiative is creating a collection of large-scale public art pieces that celebrate the unique history, culture, environment, and identity of communities across the municipality. Crafted by renowned chainsaw artist Mike Winia and fellow carvers, the sculptures serve as landmark attractions that encourage residents and visitors to explore Chatham-Kent's towns, villages, and natural areas. The project was made possible through Hydro One funding and aims to foster community pride, enhance public spaces, and support tourism through storytelling and art. The initiative continues to expand, with additional sculptures planned for other communities across Chatham-Kent, creating a growing trail of experiences that will encourage exploration throughout the municipality.
Completed sculptures to date
Two Turtles in a Canoe (pictured above)
- Community: Rondeau
- Location: Rondeau Joe's Pub, near the entrance to Rondeau Provincial Park
- Significance: Highlights the area's natural heritage, wildlife, and connection to Rondeau Bay and its turtle population. The first sculpture unveiled as part of the initiative.
Home of the Slider Pitch
- Community: Ridgetown
- Location: Downtown Ridgetown
- Significance: Honours local baseball legend Harry O'Neill and Ridgetown's claim as the birthplace of the slider pitch. Features a giant hand holding a baseball alongside a glove.
War of 1812 Shipwreck
- Community: Thamesville
- Location: 3 London Road, Thamesville
- Significance: Inspired by the Battle of the Thames and the area's important role in War of 1812 history. The sculpture reflects the heritage of the Thames River corridor and commemorates one of the region's most significant historic events.
Largemouth Bass
- Community: Shrewsbury
- Location: 112 New Scotland Line, Shrewsbury & Raglan Community Centre
- Significance: Celebrates Shrewsbury's strong connection to fishing, outdoor recreation, and the Lake Erie/Rondeau Bay ecosystem. The sculpture recognizes the community's longstanding reputation as a destination for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.
More to Come
Additional sculptures are planned for other communities across Chatham-Kent, with each piece designed to reflect the unique story, heritage, culture, or natural features of the community in which it is located. Together, the sculptures will form a distinctive tourism attraction that encourages residents and visitors to discover communities.
The initiative was created to strengthen community pride, celebrate local stories, enhance public spaces, and support tourism by encouraging people to visit and discover communities across Chatham-Kent through a growing sculpture trail.
Stay tuned for updates to this page as we expand upon this trail.
