WELLINGTON NORTH – The Wellington North Cultural Roundtable is holding an opportunity for local artisans and innovators to showcase their talents to create a mural or art piece for the 25th anniversary of the township’s amalgamation.
“Nick Brock in the recreation department mentioned that he would like to see a mural in the Mount Forest facility to celebrate the 25th anniversary,” said CAO executive assistant Tasha Grafos.
Brock and Grafos then had discussions that spiralled into Grafos bringing forth the idea to the Cultural Round table.
Doris Cassan from the roundtable and Grafos have now taken the lead on getting guidelines and “everything else” ready for the contest.
The piece of art, whether it be a painting, drawing, digital design, photography or conceptual idea, needs to highlight Wellington North and celebrate the amalgamation, and be able to be recreated on a 4’ x 8’ board.
Up to three finalists will be selected from the received submissions, and each finalist will be awarded $1,000.
The winning designs will then be printed or recreated onto a board and placed on one of three buildings in the municipality: the Kenilworth municipal office, the Arthur and Area Community Centre or the Mount Forest and District Sports Complex.
“Art is a big part of the culture [in the community] and it’s one we want to give some attention to, because we don’t feel it has a very high profile,” said Cassan.
“I don’t think people are aware of how many artisans there are in this community toiling away quietly.”
The amalgamation art contest is open to residents and property owners within Wellington North.
It is advised that if an artist outside the area would like to participate, email volunteer@wellington-north.com or call Tasha Grafos at 519-848-3620 ext. 4222.
Hardcopy or electronic submissions are due by April 12 at 4pm, and must be accompanied by a signed entry form.
“All of our communities could use a little bit of bling,” said Cassan.
Submissions will be shown at the Wellington North Volunteer and Newcomer Celebration event on April 18.
Winners will be carefully chosen and announced in the fall.
Entry forms, more information and guidelines can be found at wellington-north.com.
