In Our Hands
The Art
Is our future a distant fate?Or does it lie firmly in our hands?
Set within the forest of the Highlands Art & Tree Trail, In Our Hands reflects on collective responsibility, hope, and humanity’s relationship with nature. The installation centres around a large hand sculpted from stoneware clay and mounted to an old apple tree trunk — an image that is both protective and fragile.
In front of the hand stands a solitary human figure, while nearby, smaller human-like forms gather along apple tree branches. Together, the sculptures symbolize the idea that protecting and restoring nature requires many people working together. The work asks visitors to consider whether the future we hope for begins with the actions we take today.
Hand-built and kiln-fired, the ceramic sculptures were designed to withstand the four seasons of the Niagara Escarpment. Ensuring the attachments could endure wind, snow, rain, and time became symbolic of the challenges people face in coming together for a common cause. Mounted on an old apple tree, the installation also references the agricultural history of the Highlands, where orchards and farms once shaped the Escarpment landscape.
Set within the forest of the Highlands Art & Tree Trail, In Our Hands reflects on collective responsibility, hope, and humanity’s relationship with nature. The installation centres around a large hand sculpted from stoneware clay and mounted to an old apple tree trunk — an image that is both protective and fragile.
In front of the hand stands a solitary human figure, while nearby, smaller human-like forms gather along apple tree branches. Together, the sculptures symbolize the idea that protecting and restoring nature requires many people working together. The work asks visitors to consider whether the future we hope for begins with the actions we take today.
Hand-built and kiln-fired, the ceramic sculptures were designed to withstand the four seasons of the Niagara Escarpment. Ensuring the attachments could endure wind, snow, rain, and time became symbolic of the challenges people face in coming together for a common cause. Mounted on an old apple tree, the installation also references the agricultural history of the Highlands, where orchards and farms once shaped the Escarpment landscape.
The Artist
Anke Lex
Anke Lex is a multidisciplinary artist whose work explores themes of humanity, connection, memory, and the natural world through sculpture, ceramics, and mixed media. Based in South Georgian Bay, she is recognized not only for her artistic practice, but also for her leadership and contributions to the region’s growing arts community. Through exhibitions, collaborations, mentorship, and community-based projects, Anke has helped foster stronger connections between artists, nature, and public spaces across the region.
Find out more about Anke's art: www.ankelex.com
Sponsored by Tremont Studios
In Our Hands was created with support from Tremont Studios, a creative hub in South Georgian Bay that brings together local artists, makers, and craftspeople through shared studio space, collaboration, workshops, and exhibitions. The studio has become an important gathering place within the local arts community, supporting artistic experimentation and helping showcase the creativity emerging from the Escarpment region.
Visiting Tremont Studios in Collingwood, Ontario, is an authentic and energizing experience. Located in the Creative Simcoe Street neighbourhood, on the second floor of The Tremont, there are 10 working artists in individual studios, creating a diverse and stunning variety of art. The hallways of the building serve as a gallery with new shows every second month. The studios are open to the public to meet the artists.
