City of Nanaimo unveils intriguing sculpture by the sea in Pipers Lagoon Park

Amber Morrison and Matthew Fox’s temporary public art sculpture, Moon Snail House, invites interaction and reflection on home, environment and housing

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed August 19, 2024 10:00 AM

Summary

The City of Nanaimo invites the public to experience Moon Snail House, a newly installed temporary public art project by Nanaimo artists Amber Morrison and Matthew Fox. Located on the bluff in Pipers Lagoon Park with a view of the sea, Moon Snail House is inspired by the shell of a Lewis’s moon snail, one of the largest marine mollusks found in our local intertidal areas. In Hul'qumi'num, this creature is called Qume:ne', pronounced KUH-may-nay (with a hard 'k' sound, a long 'may,' and a sharp 'nay', as credited to Eliot White-Hill, Kwulasultun).

This large-scale artwork invites visitors to become active participants, allowing them to enter the sculpture to experience the environment from a new perspective. The two artists aim to connect small structures like the artwork to the topic of housing, encouraging reflection on who has the opportunity to live by the sea and access it. As the moon snail naturally grows its shell—a house-like structure—it prompts us to ask: What essential lessons can we learn about housing from this creature?

Moon Snail House also raises awareness about the natural habitat of moon snails. These creatures are found along the Pacific coastline and lay their eggs in sand collars, which can sometimes be mistaken for trash by beachgoers. Respecting the natural environment is crucial for preserving our shoreline and the habitats of local wildlife.

A free public unveiling event for the artwork will take place at 11:30am on Saturday, August 24th at the site of the sculpture in Pipers Lagoon Park, where there will be live music by Elise Boulanger and an opportunity to meet the artists. Moon Snail House will be on display through 2027. Information on the City of Nanaimo’s Temporary Art Program can be found on the City's website.

Link to Strategic Plan: The Temporary Public Art Program supports the goals of Nanaimo City Council and City Plan by making art visible and accessible throughout the City and promoting the role that culture and the creative sector play in enhancing both community identity and quality of life.

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