Schneider’s Creek Mural Project Unites Neighbours and Celebrates Nature
In July 2024, a railing overlooking Schneider Creek was transformed into a vibrant canvas thanks to The Creek Collective. Led by neighborhood residents and Kitchener artists Jackie Bradshaw, Nadine Badran, and Geoff Martin, this mural project brought neighbors of all ages together to honor the creek’s past and help imagine the creek’s future.
As storms become more intense and frequent, Schneider’s Creek is struggling to manage the increased water flow from these severe events. In response, the City of Kitchener plans to restore the creek to its natural state by replacing the concrete-lined channels with a more natural watercourse.
This mural project acknowledged the creek’s role in climate resilience and community cohesion. Jackie described the experience as “thrilling to see people come together to paint on a beautiful day, amidst the trees, animals, and water.”
Nadine noted, “Projects like these show support for ongoing community initiatives. When you’re having fun doing art with friends, you’ll want to keep doing it.” Geoff agreed, saying the workshops felt like “a whole day of art therapy—very relaxing and fun, especially with the guitar music.”
The project was designed to be accessible, with Geoff emphasizing, “The fact that this project was free was huge. The invitation was wide open to come and paint whatever. Neighbours didn’t have to worry about paying.” Community support was also pivotal, with Reep Green Solutions and neighbourhood champions providing crucial assistance. Nadine appreciated their help, stating, “So many people in the neighbourhood made this process less stressful. Reep provided the space, Barry and Leslie stored the murals, and other neighbours helped with materials.”
Geoff reflected on the project’s impact, saying, “None of us knew each other the summer before. This project brought us and our community together.” Jackie added that the murals also honor the natural world, explaining, “The murals are alive with faces of the rocks and trees. We need to treat nature—the creek—as if it has a spirit.”
The Creek Collective hopes the murals inspire others to appreciate the creek’s wildlife and plants. Jackie summed it up, saying, “We hope people spend time looking at the murals and appreciate the animals and plants around the creek. It’s amazing what you can create with paint, boards, and neighbourhood family and friends.”
Grateful for the $2,000 grant from the City of Kitchener’s LoveMyHood Matching Grant program, Geoff concluded at the mural unveiling, “We’re so thankful for the all the support that made this community project happen.”
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