Cast your vote – Canatara Beach Lifeguard Station mural design
We’re teaming up with nuSarnia to facilitate the installation of a temporary mural to beautify the Canatara Beach Lifeguard Station, but before we get started, we want to hear from you on the design.
The nuSarnia Foundation will be installing a cloth mural around the station this summer. They’ve engaged local artists for submissions that “reflect the beauty of Canatara Park, the spirit of Lake Huron, and Sarnia’s rich history – all while bringing a bright and vibrant energy to this beloved community space.”
Submissions are in, and they’ve provided three potential designs.
Now we’re looking to you for your say, before Council decides on a final design.
Review the submissions
Review the three submissions and brief descriptions from the artists below and cast your vote via the survey at the bottom of the page.
Submission 1 — artist Kylie Marsden
Artist’s description: This vibrant mural playfully celebrates the region's diverse ecosystems. A central sunburst represents the vital energy supporting local biodiversity. The depiction of varied fish highlights the ecological richness of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River. Stylized trees illustrate the area's natural habitats. The mural reminds of the value of these resources and the importance of their conservation for the community and our future generations.
Submission 2 — artist Cynthia Fay
Artist’s description: "Where the Water Sings" reflects the natural beauty and peaceful spirit of Canatara Park. Inspired by the kindness of the woman who first envisioned and helped secure this waterfront space — Maud MacAdams Hanna — the hair of the central figure flows outward like the waves of the beautiful water she named Canatara, drawn from the Ojibwe word for "blue water." This mural is meant to inspire kindness and a sense of joy through the music and harmony found in nature and when experiencing the park itself. As a mixed-race artist, music therapist, and teacher, I wanted the piece to feel alive with biodiversity, welcoming, and full of light—a reminder to spread kindness wherever you go and to appreciate the beautiful sounds of nature.
Submission 3 — artist Emily Wright
Artist’s description: This design was inspired by the natural beauty that can be found at Canatara Park & Beach. I have illustrated a sunset at the beach and included some of the flowers that can be found throughout the park; black eyed susan, prairie smoke, wild geraniums and blue phlox flowers. I chose to include these flowers due to the history of Canatara Park and Maud Hanna. “Maud MacAdams Hanna was a civic-minded individual who gave freely of her time and money. She had a soft spot for kids and authored a respected booklet on wildflowers and conservation.” Through the inclusion of the flowers I am paying homage to Hanna and what she has done for the enjoyment of the community through preserving nature’s beauty with her donation of both monetary value and time. In my opinion, the beauty of nature speaks for itself brilliantly through vibrant colours and I wanted that to come through in my design for the Canatara Lifeguard Station.
Cast your vote
Cast your vote for the design you most prefer via the survey below. Voting is open until June 4, at 4:30 p.m.
Results of public engagement will be shared with City Council for a final decision at its June 23, 2025 meeting.
