Working the Weir

This photograph was taken in 2019 and printed on Ilford Smooth Pearl paper in 2024.

Edition #1 of 20. It is currently framed for display with white moulding, but without glass.

From artist Susan Lapides: 

When I began photographing St. George, I followed my intuition, capturing moments of my family on vacation and scenes that intrigued me, stopping me in my tracks. Over 17 years, I discovered new perspectives in familiar places—perhaps influenced by the changing light, fog, or my own mood. Eventually, I realized that these snapshots of St. George were weaving a larger narrative about a community in transition.

For instance, many residents lamented the disappearance of the fishing weirs. This prompted me to embark on personal assignments documenting one of the remaining weir fishermen, as well as the salmon industry. Through connections, friends of friends facilitated introductions, granting me access that is now harder to come by. These opportunities were precious.

Who would preserve this narrative for future generations? It became my aspiration to create a book that would enable grandparents to relive memories through photographs, sparking conversations with their families.

Years later, this dream has materialized with a solo exhibit scheduled for 2024 at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, NB, coinciding with the release of a book published by Goose Lane Editions. The book will be available on their website and in bookstores.