You asked for it. Following the incredible success of the inaugural Algonquin Outfitters Paddle Art Contest, which doubled both the expected number of entries and the fundraising goal, AO has launched it again, this time in celebration of Algonquin Park’s 125th anniversary (1893-2018).
With a goal of 100 paddles and $10,000 raised for its two chosen recipients―Oxtongue Lake for Arts and Culture (OLAC) and the Town of Huntsville reserve fund for future acquisition of public art―the first contest instead saw 206 paddles entered and raised a whopping $20,094 at the subsequent auction.
“It was a resounding success,” said Randy Mitson, AO’s Marketing Director. “We were thrilled with the creativity of the paddles that were entered and with the support of the community who bid in the auction.”
The goal this time is the same: 100 paddles entered and $10,000 raised. The contest is open to anyone with a creative idea for a paddle―you don’t need to be an artist to participate. Last year’s entries included paddles painted with scenes from nature, people and geometric designs, carved paddles and sculpted paddles, and even a paddle-turned-electric guitar.
“Anything goes, as long as it starts with a paddle,” says Mitson. “We can’t wait to see what people come up with this time around.”
There is a $30 registration fee for the contest, which includes a paddle blank, although you can use your own paddle instead if you prefer but the entry fee still applies. Paddles can be picked up at up at many of the Algonquin Outfitters stores including Bracebridge, Haliburton, Huntsville, Lake of Two Rivers, Lake Opeongo, Oxtongue Lake and Port Carling. You have until August 31, 2019 to complete your masterpiece.
The online paddle art auction will take place from September 15 to 29, 2019, with a live event at the Algonquin Theatre on Friday, September 27. Stay tuned for more details on the auction in 2019. Proceeds will once again support OLAC and the Town of Huntsville’s public art acquisition fund, along with the Tom Thomson Gallery.
Paddle artists have the opportunity to win prizes, too! Prizes will be awarded to the artists of the paddles that raise the most at the auction (there will be a minimum of one prize will be awarded for every 25 paddles received).
If you want some inspiration, check out all 206 of the first contest’s entries here. And for details on how to enter this time around, visit algonquinoutfitters.com.
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