Restoration of mural underway at 2,500-foot Ogden Point Breakwater

The restoration of the Na’Tsa’Maht Unity Wall is now underway at Victoria’s Breakwater District.

Artist Jesse Campbell is leading the work along with trainees Calvin George from the Songhees Nation and Savannah Thomas from the xʷsepsəm Nation.

The project aims to repair several mural panels on the 2,500-foot Ogden Point breakwater that were damaged last year.

Campbell mentioned that the restoration comes with unique challenges.

One challenge is finding materials that can endure constant exposure to salt, wind, and water. Another is respecting and maintaining the original designs.

He added that the mural serves as a reminder that the site is lək̓ʷəŋən territory. It also helps raise awareness of Indigenous mural work in the area.

The Na’Tsa’Maht Unity Wall, which means “Unity” in the Hul’q’umi’num’ language, is known as Canada’s largest mural. It was originally created by artists Clarence “Butch” Dick from the Songhees Nation and Darlene Gait from the xʷsepsəm Nation, along with input from youth artists and collaborators.

The work reflects the Salish teaching of “working together as one” and serves as a cultural bridge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

The mural was first sponsored in 2009 by the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA). They have supported its growth through several phases.

Covering the inner and outer breakwater walls, the large artwork shares stories, traditions, and images from Coast Salish culture. It also offers mentorship and job opportunities for new Indigenous artists.

The work being done will help preserve the Unity Wall as a major mural and cultural site at Ogden Point.