The familiar sight of the “eyeball rocks” overlooking Nova Scotia’s Highway 103, two large boulders adorned with painted eyes, is set to disappear soon. Positioned on the left side of the road between exits 7 and 6 on the route towards Halifax, these iconic rocks will be demolished to facilitate the highway’s twinning. Jason Smith, one of the original artists involved in creating the eye artwork, expressed mixed emotions about the impending removal, stating, “I’m kind of sad to see them go, but if they got to go, they got to go.”
Smith, along with his friend Neil and their children, crafted the eye design back in October 2017 when the boulders were exposed during highway clearing activities. While the creators had remained unidentified until now, Smith revealed that Neil preferred to stay anonymous. The initial plan was to paint emojis on the rocks, but after a chance encounter with an off-duty highway supervisor, the design transformed into eyes with pupils. Over time, the painted rocks became a cherished unofficial landmark, joining other painted features along Highway 103 like a cartoon frog and a cat in Maud Lewis’s style.
Despite efforts to maintain and touch up the eye artwork over the years, plans to blast the boulders have progressed, drawing a mix of reactions from the community. While some lament the loss of the rocks, others remain hopeful that new artistry may emerge in the future. Gary Andrea, a representative from the Department of Public Works, confirmed that the rocks are slated for demolition later this month to enhance safety during highway twinning efforts. Acknowledging the sentimental value attached to the rocks, Andrea emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety during the construction process.
As the date for the rocks’ demolition approaches, Smith expressed regret over their fate but also reflected on the joy they brought to people. He intends to share the story of the “eyeball rocks” with his grandchildren, emphasizing that their legacy lives on through memories and photographs. Despite the impending loss, Smith remains grateful for the community’s support and the smiles the artwork elicited over the years.
