The things you can experience along the side of the road
I recently had the incredible opportunity to explore Northeastern Alberta for an entire week, discovering new roads and revisiting beloved places.
One of the most memorable moments happened near Saddle Lake Cree Nation. I had passed by some remarkable sculptures on my way to Cold Lake and vowed to return and learn more about them.
I made it a point to stop and immerse myself in their story.
These sculptures are the work of Stewart Steinhauer, a self-taught Cree stone carver with extraordinary talent. His creations are deeply moving, perhaps because they come from such a personal place.
The Bearly Alive Exhibit, dedicated to Stewart’s late wife Cindi, who passed away from cancer in 2023, also marks his own recovery from a near-fatal heart attack that same year. The sculptures, created between 2012 and 2023, form a powerful roadside exhibition that tells a story of resilience and love.
If you ever find yourself in Northeast Alberta near Saddle Lake Cree Nation, make sure to visit this free exhibit. There’s ample parking, making it an easy and worthwhile stop. You won’t regret experiencing the profound artistry of Stewart Steinhauer.
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Renee Charbonneau
