Cary Horning

Rocky the Rock Snake: A Community Art Project Aiming for a World Record in Point Edward Waterfront Park.

In June 2023, Wendy Marsden and her partner, Rick, initiated a community art project in Point Edward, near Sarnia, Ontario, by placing 13 painted stones and a hand-written sign along the St. Clair River at the Rotary Flag Plaza.
The sign invited passersby to contribute their own painted rocks to "Rocky the growing snake," aiming to bring smiles to the community.

The project quickly gained momentum. By July 2023, over 300 colorful rocks had been added, and by April 2024, the count had surpassed 11,000. Rocky now stretches along the Waterfront Park walkway in Point Edward, becoming a vibrant symbol of community spirit and creativity.

The initiative has attracted attention from locals and tourists alike, with visitors from as far as the U.K. and the Netherlands contributing to Rocky's growth. Children and families are especially enthusiastic, often adding rocks adorned with artistic designs and uplifting messages.

In November 2023, the Village of Point Edward council approved a motion allowing Rocky to extend onto municipal property towards the Bluewater Bridge, under certain conditions to ensure public safety and maintenance.

The community's goal is to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest rock snake, aiming to surpass the current record of 23,000 painted rocks. Volunteers continue to organize events to maintain and expand Rocky, including cleanup and painting sessions.

Rocky the Rock Snake stands as a testament to the power of community art projects in uniting people and enhancing public spaces. Visitors are encouraged to participate by adding their own painted rocks, contributing to this growing symbol of collective creativity along the scenic St. Clair River.

Look for the ehCanadaTravel.com rock!