City of Nanaimo ice resurfacing machine features new Snuneymuxw designed wrap

Noel Brown design unveiled Oct 1

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed October 2, 2025 10:30 AM

Summary

As part of the City of Nanaimo’s ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, a new art wrap designed by Snuneymuxw artist Noel Brown was added to one of the City’s ice resurfacing machines.

This project reflects the City’s commitment to working with local First Nations artists and encouraging public art that supports reconciliation while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of local First Nations culture.

Noel Brown is a master carver and member of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Over recent years, Brown has contributed numerous designs for projects in public space including the Welcome Poles at Maffeo Sutton Park and Fire Station 1. Each year, he also designs the artwork for the City’s orange shirts honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This year’s orange shirt design is featured prominently on the hood of the ice resurfacer.

The new art wrap was unveiled during a ceremony at the Nanaimo Ice Centre on Wednesday, Oct. 1.

Link to Strategic Plan: This project reflects the City’s commitment to working with local First Nations artists and encouraging public art that supports reconciliation while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of local First Nations culture.

Key Points

As part of the City of Nanaimo’s ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, a new art wrap designed by Snuneymuxw artist Noel Brown will be unveiled on one of the City’s ice resurfacers.
Noel Brown is a master carver and member of the Snuneymuxw First Nation.
The new art wrap was unveiled in a ceremony at the Nanaimo Ice Centre on Wednesday, Oct. 1.

Quotes

"The City of Nanaimo is honoured to showcase the work of Snuneymuxw artist Noel Brown. By placing this design on the ice resurfacer, we are reminded that reconciliation is not a single day, but a responsibility we carry together in our daily lives as a community. We are grateful to Noel Brown for sharing his vision, and we are proud to see his work become part of Nanaimo’s cultural landscape."

Leonard Krog

Mayor

City of Nanaimo