August 28, 2025
Cornwall Ontario — The Government of Ontario recently acquired Blue Impressions, a striking artwork that highlights the St. Lawrence River’s vital role in the environment and regional communities, for its permanent art collection.
This visually captivating piece by acclaimed Ottawa artist Christine Fitzgerald brings to life the story of the St. Lawrence River’s rich ecology, weaving together art, science, and community voices. It was created in collaboration with the River Institute and community participants from Cornwall and Akwesasne, and generously supported by the Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition.
“We know from research that when people feel connected to their local waterway, they’re more likely to take action to protect it. Blue Impressions brings together art, science, and community to strengthen that connection to the St. Lawrence River,” said Dr. Diz Glithero, Executive Director, Canadian Ocean Literacy Coalition.
The vivid blue collage features depictions of local plant and animal life. The artwork is inspired by the ecological indicators of the Great River Rapport (riverrapport.ca), an innovative initiative led by the River Institute in partnership with the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, which is bringing together and sharing information about the health of Kaniatarowanenneh (St. Lawrence River). The project is framed in the Haudenosaunee Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen (Words that come before all else), underscoring the critical importance of Indigenous perspectives in environmental restoration and conservation.
Blue Impressions was selected as a top jury selection for Art & Science Initiatives at the prestigious American Geophysical Union International 2022 Meeting in Chicago. Most recently, it was featured in the “Connecting Currents” exhibition at the Cline House Gallery in Cornwall.
This acquisition highlights the Government of Ontario’s ongoing commitment to supporting the arts.
About the St. Lawrence River
The St. Lawrence River is one of the world’s great rivers. Measuring almost 1200 kilometres, the river flows easterly from Lake Ontario to the Gulf of St Lawrence and Atlantic Ocean. The River has a diverse ecosystem that has long been celebrated by First Nations Peoples. It flows through the traditional lands of the Mohawks of Akwesasne and forms the southern boundary of the City of Cornwall. The river continues to be an important transportation and recreation route to this day.
About the River Institute
The River Institute is a non-profit, charitable research centre located in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada. Its mandate is research, education and community action relating to large river systems, with a focus on the St. Lawrence River ecosystem. A non-governmental organization, the River Institute works in partnership with a wide variety of individuals, groups, agencies and communities to fulfill its environmental mission.
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