Bruce County Museum exhibit brings visibility to substance-related loss

The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre is inviting the public to the opening of "They are Loved – an epidemic of grief," a new installation by artist Tracey-Mae Chambers, Friday, May 1, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The exhibit uses textile donations from families who have experienced the loss of a loved one due to substance consumption. The growing installation cuts the donated fabrics into strips and ties them together as a representation of shared grief and connection.

The project was born from Chambers’ own personal grief following the death of her son, Parker, who died of drug poisoning in February, 2023. Through "They are Loved," she seeks to raise awareness of lives lost to substance-related harms across Canada. While rooted in her personal experience, the installation has grown to represent hundreds of individuals across the country.

The project brings attention to disenfranchised grief — grief that often goes unacknowledged or socially unsupported. This can occur when there is stigma or marginalization for those with experiences relating to addiction or mental-health challenges, silencing those who grieve. Through the physical presence of the installation, "They are Loved" brings these painful experiences into view, creating space for remembrance, recognition and collective support.

“It is an honour for the museum to host this installation," says museum director Cathy McGirr. "We hope that Tracey-Mae's work offers community and families a place for healing and connection, while bringing attention to this very important issue.”

The opening event is free to attend and open to everyone. Community support services will be available during the event.

There is encouragement for those planning to attend, to RSVP on-line at brucemuseum.ca or by phone at 519-797-2080. For more information, visit brucemuseum.ca.

This project is proudly supported by community partners including National Overdose Response Service (NORS); Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey Bruce Mental Health and Addictions Services; Indigenous Services Canada; Mino Bimaadsawin Health Centre; M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre; Supportive Outreach Service  (SOS); Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre; Grey Bruce Public Health Harm Reduction Team; Chippewas of Nawash Health Centre; Safe N’ Sound Grey Bruce; and 211 Ontario.