Massive / Unforgettable - Roshan McGuinness

October 19, 2022

Roshan McGuinness, AVC 2023, travelled to Port Hope Simpson as one of the student participants on the Chinook Project. As part of the experience, the students craft various pieces of reflective writing.

This is without a doubt one of my favourite photos I have ever taken. It was taken on our last day in Port Hope Simpson when the group and I were taken out all the way to the Labrador Sea – about an hour by motorboat each way – to see icebergs. This was the first time I had ever seen an iceberg and it was one of the most amazing things I had ever experienced. 

The reason I love this picture so much is because it shows just how massive the iceberg is. I’ve always been fascinated by structures or masses that are so large that I could spend hours looking at every detail. Be it a mountain, or a skyscraper, or a view from an observation deck, and now this iceberg.

The detail of its rugged upper section juxtaposed with the smooth lower section, with the family of seagulls below just before takeoff. I literally could not look away.

To me, this photo signifies one of my favourite days during the Chinook Project. The whole community came together to ensure we had the best last day possible.  After bringing us to see these icebergs, we were invited into their own spaces for drinks, and then brought to a barbecue in which the community showered us with food, gifts, and their thanks and blessings. We finished off the night by being taken out on the water on a sea-doo while the community cheered us on. I can’t thank the community of Port Hope Simpson enough for showing us an unforgettable time.