Remembering the Stone: Soapstone & Its Indigenous Stewards
- info280028
- Sep 26
- 8 min read
Updated: Oct 6
On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we gather not only to mourn and remember but also to listen and learn. It is a day to honour the lives touched by residential schools, acknowledge the deep scars still felt across Indigenous communities, and step forward together in a spirit of respect (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, 2015). In Quebec’s Eastern Townships, near East Broughton, this truth carries a particular weight: these lands hold stories of both natural beauty and human struggle, including the legacy of residential schools that disrupted culture, language, and connection to the land (Milloy, 1999). To learn more about this painful history, Canadians can begin here: Map of Residential Schools Associated with Unmarked Burial Sites in Canada. It is a reminder that history is not past but a living presence.
Beneath our feet lies another story — one written in stone. Soapstone, also called steatite, is one of Canada’s quiet treasures: soft to carve yet enduring through centuries (Horne, 2019). Across our land, this stone was not simply a material but a living connection to culture, ceremony, and survival (Taylor, 2014). Indigenous communities in Newfoundland, Nunavik, and Quebec have worked soapstone for thousands of years, shaping bowls, lamps, and vessels (McGhee, 2008). They carved inukshuks and figures that told stories, marked paths, and guided people in their travels across vast landscapes. These stones were not merely objects but living markers of identity and belonging (Baker, 2020).
In Newfoundland’s Fleur de Lys, the rock face still holds the memory of hands that shaped soapstone over millennia. Visible today are the “preforms” — the beginnings of vessels left in situ — a quiet classroom of memory that speaks to craftsmanship, cultural continuity, and the deep relationship between people and land long before modern tools or maps existed (Baker, 2020). It is a heritage preserved not only in archaeology but in the living traditions of Indigenous communities who have cared for these places (Harper, 2022).
In Quebec, the story continues. The province rests atop some of the oldest rocks in the world, where soapstone occurs naturally (Horne, 2019). Today, companies like Les Pierres Stéatites Inc. mine and craft the stone for stoves, counters, and sculptures, continuing a lineage of stone work (Les Pierres Stéatites Inc., 2023).
Historical Mine Nova Scotia (1943) https://notyourgrandfathersmining.ca/soapstone-mine
Industrial use carries responsibility: it calls for consultation with Indigenous communities, respect for heritage sites, and transparent sourcing (Indigenous Corporate Training Inc., 2021). This is especially meaningful in places like East Broughton, where the past includes both the beauty of soapstone and the pain of residential school histories. Stewardship here is not simply environmental — it is a commitment to justice, truth, and healing (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, 2015).
Soapstone Carvings: An Artistic Reflection of Cultural Identity
Soapstone carvings are not just ornamental; they are deeply intertwined with spiritual beliefs, cultural stories, and ancestral connections. Carvings often feature animals, spirits, or natural elements, each symbolizing important aspects of Indigenous life. For example, a bear carving may represent strength, while an eagle can symbolize wisdom and freedom (Baker, 2020).
The process of soapstone carving is also a means of cultural transmission. Elders teach younger generations the techniques and stories behind the art. This intergenerational exchange helps maintain cultural identity while fostering a sense of pride and connection to the past (Smith, 2018). Studies have shown that Indigenous youth engaged in arts programs feel a stronger connection to their heritage and culture (Smith, 2018). In this way, soapstone carving is not only a form of creative expression but also a vital means of cultural preservation.
The Role of Soapstone in Spiritual Practices
In many Indigenous communities, soapstone is used in spiritual and ceremonial contexts. Sacred items such as pipes, altars, and ritual tools are crafted from soapstone, believed to bridge the physical and spiritual realms (McCormick, 2017). The act of carving itself is often described as a form of meditation and communion with ancestors. Artisans feel a deep connection to the stone as they work (Taylor, 2014).
Contemporary Uses of Soapstone
Although soapstone has ancient roots in Indigenous cultures, its relevance continues in the modern era. Contemporary artists blend traditional carving techniques with new designs, pushing the boundaries of soapstone art. Recent exhibitions showcase works that address contemporary issues affecting Indigenous peoples, such as land rights, environmental sustainability, and identity (Harper, 2022). By reimagining soapstone, these artists not only keep the tradition alive but also bring it into the current cultural dialogue.
In addition to its continued importance within Indigenous communities, soapstone carvings have gained wider recognition beyond Indigenous circles. Today, these pieces are displayed in galleries and art shows, offering Indigenous artists a platform to share their stories and celebrate their cultural heritage with a broader audience (National Gallery of Canada, 2023). This increased visibility plays a crucial role in fostering mutual respect and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Supporting Indigenous Artisans and Their Communities
On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it is essential to show our support for Indigenous artisans and their communities. Purchasing soapstone carvings directly from artists or Indigenous-owned businesses ensures that profits benefit the creators and their communities. This helps to sustain both traditional art forms and economic independence. By supporting these artisans, we contribute to the revitalization and preservation of Indigenous cultures while empowering Indigenous peoples.
Additionally, taking the time to learn about the cultural significance of soapstone art and the story behind each carving enhances our appreciation for the artistry involved. Engaging with Indigenous artists allows us to deepen our understanding of their cultures and histories, fostering greater empathy and respect.
Respecting Indigenous Carvings
Indigenous artists convey stories and emotions through each piece they create. To honor these expressions, we aim to preserve their work with care and respect. Whether purchased directly from an artist or received as a gift, it is our responsibility to protect and care for the artwork entrusted to us. Consider its proper care and maintenance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZ8KN7qQS7g
Celebrating Soapstone: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future
Soapstone symbolizes resilience, creativity, and cultural connection. It serves as both a practical material and a cultural artifact. On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, its significance in Indigenous cultures across North America is highlighted. Indigenous artisans have used soapstone for centuries to create carvings that tell stories, convey spiritual beliefs, and preserve traditions. These often depict animals, human figures, and symbols integral to Indigenous narratives. Three soapstone carvings prominently represent National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, as noted by the Indigenous Art Quarterly (IAQ, 2022). These carvings symbolize the journey toward healing and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. They focus on truth-telling, acknowledgment of past injustices, and fostering respectful relationships recognizing Indigenous rights and histories.
Carving soapstone is culturally significant. It requires skill, artistry, and a connection to the earth and its stories. The transformation from raw stone to art mirrors the reconciliation journey. It involves patience, dedication, and honoring the past while aiming for an inclusive future. Celebrating this day calls for appreciating soapstone artistry and engaging with its deeper meanings. This enhances understanding of Indigenous perspectives and cultural heritage preservation. Soapstone's significance extends beyond its physical properties. It embodies Indigenous resilience, land connection, and creativity amid historical challenges. Engaging with this material and its stories encourages participation in the dialogue on truth and reconciliation. It promotes a more equitable society for all.
By supporting Indigenous artists and engaging with their work, we can help preserve these traditions for future generations and build a more inclusive society. Through our collective appreciation and support, we can ensure that the artistry of soapstone thrives. This honors the past while paving the way for a future of mutual respect and understanding.
Participating in Truth and Reconciliation Events
Reconciliation Through Art – Almonte, Ontario | September 28, 2025 @ 2:00 pm
Waabanjigaazo – Kingston, Ontario | September 2 to October 11
Empowering Voices Through Art – Coquitlam, British Columbia | September 30
Preserving Soapstone Traditions
As we look to the future, it is crucial to continue supporting Indigenous communities in their efforts to preserve soapstone carving traditions. By fostering environments that respect and celebrate Indigenous knowledge, we can help ensure that these practices not only survive but thrive for generations to come. The ongoing connection between these communities and soapstone is a testament to the resilience and vitality of Indigenous cultures. It is our responsibility to honor and support this rich heritage.
How Canadians Can Support Stewardship
Supporting soapstone heritage means more than admiration — it means care and action. Every Canadian can contribute to stewardship by:
Listening & Learning: Read Indigenous histories and oral traditions. Explore the Map of Residential School Sites & Mass Graves in Canada to understand the truth of our shared history.
Supporting Indigenous Artisans: Purchase directly from Indigenous artists and collectives that ensure fair compensation and respect for cultural protocols.
Protecting Heritage Sites: Advocate for the preservation of quarry sites, culturally significant landscapes, and sacred places.
Walking the Path of Reconciliation: Commit to acknowledging and acting upon the histories of Indigenous peoples, especially the stories tied to places like East Broughton, QC, and the lands where soapstone is found.
Acknowledging Indigenous Territories: Pay verbal and/or written respect to the area of land you are on or using; acknowledging the Indigenous tribes ascribed to that location.
A Call to Care
Soapstone is a teacher. Its carvings speak of endurance, beauty, and connection. For Indigenous peoples, these stones carry centuries of stewardship. For all Canadians, they are a reminder: the work of honouring land and culture belongs to us all.
“We don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors — we borrow it from our children.” — Indigenous proverb
References
Baker, T. (2020). Carving identity: Soapstone in Indigenous culture. Indigenous Arts Journal, 12(3), 45–60.
Harper, L. (2022). Modern voices in ancient stone: Contemporary soapstone art. Canadian Art Review, 34(2), 78–94.
Horne, S. (2019). Soapstone heritage of Canada. Geological Society of Canada.
Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. (2021). Indigenous engagement and resource development. Retrieved from https://www.ictinc.ca/
Les Pierres Stéatites Inc. (2023). Our story. Retrieved from https://www.pierressteatites.com/
McCormick, A. (2017). Sacred stones: Soapstone in ceremonial practice. Journal of Spiritual Materials, 5(1), 22–38.
McGhee, R. (2008). Ancient stonework: Indigenous use of soapstone in Canada. Arctic Anthropology, 45(1), 12–28.
Milloy, J. S. (1999). A national crime: The Canadian government and the residential school system, 1879 to 1986. University of Manitoba Press.
Smith, D. (2018). Cultural arts and youth: Preserving Indigenous traditions. Canadian Journal of Education, 41(4), 1–19.
Taylor, J. (2014). The spirit of stone: Indigenous connections to soapstone. Cultural Heritage Quarterly, 9(2), 33–49.
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. (2015). Honouring the truth, reconciling for the future: Summary of the final report.
Image References
Mining Association of Nova Scotia. (n.d.). Soapstone Mine. Not Your Grandfather’s Mining Industry. Retrieved from https://notyourgrandfathersmining.ca/soapstone-mine notyourgrandfathersmining.ca
CBC Radio. (2018, May 4). From soapstone carving to Second Life: Indigenous peoples in Quebec embrace tradition and technology. CBC. https://www.cbc.ca/radio/unreserved/from-soapstone-carving-to-second-life-indigenous-peoples-in-quebec-embrace-tradition-and-technology-1.4645198
IAQ. (2022, September 29). Three Inuit Artworks to Reflect On for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Inuit Art Quarterly. Retrieved from https://www.inuitartfoundation.org/iaq-online/three-inuit-artworks-to-reflect-on-for-the-national-day-of-truth-and-reconciliation
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