In the 1970s, a classical stone amphitheatre and gardens were built on the Saugeen River slope by members of Saugeen First Nation. This cultural heart of Saugeen was for many years a cultural destination attracting people to ceremonial and performance events – a source of economic development and pride for the community. A strategy to revitalize the site is guided by a master plan that expands its role as a cultural centre based on Anishinaabek world views of land stewardship; sustainability; and the reclamation of Indigenous language and traditional knowledge. The gardens, designed around a thematic interpretation of the 7 Grandfather Teachings, provide an inspiring setting for cultural reclamation. The master plan was prepared by Brook Mulroy’s Indigenous design studio in association with medicine plant educator Joseph Picwanakwat and Elder Duke Redbird guided by a series of community workshops and feasts held at the site.
Presented by Albert Viljoen, OALA Landscape Architectural Intern