Henry Campbell, an 11th‑grade student at Sir James Dunn Academy in Saint Andrews, New Brunswick, devoted more than 50 hours over five months to assemble a 15,000‑piece Lego version of Bill Reid’s celebrated Haida artwork ‘Haida Dog Salmon – Skaagi.’ The piece now sits on display at the Sunbury Shores Arts and Nature Centre, showcasing a unique blend of Indigenous art and modern building blocks.

15,000 Lego Bricks Bring ‘Skaagi’ to Life in New Brunswick

Campbell’s recreation mirrors Reid’s original print, which is part of the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art’s collection in Vancouver. By securing permission from the gallery—a rare concession due to copyright concerns—he was able to faithfully translate the formline style into a three‑dimensional Lego model.

Vice‑Principal Audrey Norman Guides Career‑Planning Project

The undertaking formed part of a personal interest course overseen by Sir James Dunn Academy’s vice‑principal Audrey Norman . According to the school report, the project was designed to help Campbell explore future career options, including his ambition to work for the Lego Group after graduation.

Curator Aliya Boubard Praises Unusual Interpretation

Aliya Boubard, curator at the Bill Reid Gallery, expressed admiration for Campbell’s ability to capture the intricate formline motifs using plastic bricks. She noted that the gallery rarely allows reproductions of Reid’s works, making the Lego version a noteworthy excepton.

Student Plans to Apply to Lego Headquarters in Denmark

Following the exhibition, Campbell announced his intention to apply for a position at Lego’s headquarters in Billund, Denmark, and has even begun learning Danish to improve his prospects. The public display at Sunbury Shores has drawn significant attention, highlighting both his craftsmanship and cultural appreciation.

Who Holds the Rights to Reid’s ‘Skaagi’?

The Bill Reid Gallery retains copyright over the original print, and its rare approval of Campbell’s project raises questions about future permissions for similar artistic reinterpretations. as of now, no other institutions have granted comparable rights for Lego adaptations of Indigenous art.