A hand gently holds a cluster of ripe wild blueberries, showcasing the bounty of the Northwestern Ontario summer.
A Sweet Sign of Summer in North
There are few things that signify the peak of summer in Northwestern Ontario and Manitoba quite like the sight of a bush laden with ripe, wild blueberries. The vibrant blue hues, often nestled among low-lying shrubs, are a delicious promise of warmer days and long, sunlit evenings. These berries, smaller and more intensely flavoured than their cultivated cousins, are a true taste of the boreal forest. They are a treasure we’ve been documenting as part of our Northern Ontario arts and community recreation program, reminding us of the simple, yet profound, gifts our land provides.
Wild blueberries, scientifically known as Vaccinium myrtilloides, are more than just a sweet treat. They are an integral part of the local ecosystem, providing food for bears, birds, and other wildlife. Their presence is often a sign of healthy, acidic soil and a thriving forest environment. Our youth and artists have been learning about their growth cycles and the optimal conditions for finding them, a process that teaches patience and a deep respect for the natural world. This practical knowledge is just as valuable as the artistic inspiration we draw from the rich colours and textures of the berries.
For generations, wild blueberry picking has been a community activity, a chance for families and friends to gather outdoors and connect with the land. The simple act of harvesting these berries becomes a shared experience, a tradition that strengthens community bonds. We have spoken with community recreation leaders in Northern Ontario who see these gatherings as essential for promoting physical and mental well-being, fostering a deeper connection to nature and our local heritage. The berries themselves are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, offering a healthy and delicious way to enjoy the summer harvest.
Beyond their culinary and ecological importance, wild blueberries have become a muse for many of our participants. The stunning contrast of their blue against the green foliage, the delicate dusting of natural wax on their skins, and the simple beauty of a single berry have inspired countless sketches, photographs, and poems. This small, humble fruit encapsulates the spirit of the north: resilient, beautiful, and full of life. It’s a testament to how even the smallest parts of our environment can hold immense cultural and artistic significance.
This summer, artists and youth from across Northwestern Ontario, Manitoba, and Nunavut are on a quest to capture some of the many plants and flowers that grow around our natural environments. Every day, we post a different plant or flower, mostly from our Northwestern Ontario living land lab. The program was seeded in 2022 with funding and support from the Canada Council for the Arts Digital Greenhouse, and later by the Manitoba Arts Council and Ontario Arts Council. This year’s programming for plants and flowers builds on pilot programming supported by Manitoba Agriculture and the Canadian Sustainable Agricultural Partnership.
This year’s Northwestern Ontario Living Land Lab arts internship program was funded by the Ontario Arts Council Multi and Inter-Arts program and we thank them for their support.
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