Calling all inventors, dreamers, and creators of all ages! The beloved “Build Your Own Whirligig” competition is back, and we can’t wait to see what whimsical, colorful, and kinetic outdoor sculptures you’ll bring to life this year.
Whether you’re working solo, teaming up with friends and family, or collaborating with your neighbors, this competition is all about creativity, ingenuity, and fun.
We’re challenging participants to use found materials. Dig through your backyard, scour your garage, or raid your recycling bin for those hidden treasures that can be transformed into something magical. Think beyond the ordinary and let your imagination take flight—literally! Your whirligig can be tall, small, wide, or even themed—just make it spin, and make it awesome!
SHOW OFF YOUR WHIMSICAL, COLORFUL, KINETIC OUTDOOR SCULPTURE CREATIONS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN MONEY!
There are three categories to enter:
- Professional Artist / Business – for those with access to professional tools, materials, and equipment for building
- Amateur – individual or group built at home by community member 17 years or older
- Youth (17 & under) – Open to all youth 17 or under, individual or group. Could also be a school project or church youth group submission as long as all participants are 17 and under.
A $250 prize will be awarded to the winning whirligig in each of the three categories. Ribbons will be awarded for 2nd and 3rd place in each category. Prize money will be mailed out within 30 days of the festival.
Judging will take place on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park stage. Awards are usually announced between 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Entry is free, but preregistration is required. If you have any questions, please reach out to Wilson Arts Visual Arts Coordinator Dee Dee Oliver at deedee@wilsonarts.com.
CONTEST ENTRY AND WHIRLIGIG DELIVERY DEADLINE IS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 AT 5 PM
Submit your photos from past Whirligig Festivals or moments that have happened at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park.
This competition is open to individuals 18 & older. You may submit up to 3 photos to be selected for the in person judging during the weekend of the Whirligig Festival November 1 & 2, 2025.
All photos will remain on display throughout the entire festival weekend.
PRIZES:
– $250 Prize for 1st Place-Best in Show
– $100 Prize for Honorable Mention
– $100 Prize for People’s Choice (voted on by festival goers)
Winners will be announced Saturday afternoon at the Whirligig Park stage. Prize money will be mailed out within 30 days of the festival.
Entry is free, but preregistration is required. If you have any questions, please reach out to Wilson Arts Visual Arts Coordinator Dee Dee Oliver at deedee@wilsonarts.com.
Whirligig photo entries should be delivered for display to the Wilson Arts Center, 204 Nash Street S. no later than Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Photos may be framed or unframed.
Back by popular demand, the Sidewalk Chalk Art competition is now in its 7th year! This fan-favorite event has continued to grow, with more participants each year pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Alongside 2D chalk images, we are also encouraging 3D artists to join in the fun! Imagine transforming a flat sidewalk into a scene that looks like it’s popping right out of the ground! 3D sidewalk chalk art uses shading, perspective, and a bit of artistic magic to create illusions that seem to leap off the pavement. Whether it’s a hole leading to a hidden world or a towering object that defies reality, 3D art captivates viewers with its mind-bending effects.
The competition will take place inside the vibrant Whirligig Park, where festivalgoers can watch these stunning creations come to life before their eyes.
Prizes will be awarded in three categories:
- 3D / Professional – $150 for first place
- Amateur – $150 for first place
- Youth (17 & under) – $50 for first place, plus an art supplies pack
Winners will be announced Saturday afternoon at the Whirligig Park stage. Prize money will be mailed out within 30 days of the festival.
Entry is free, but pre-registration is required. Registration deadline is Saturday, October 25 at 5:00 p.m. All materials will be provided, but you are also welcome to bring your own supplies. If you have any questions, please reach out to Wilson Arts Visual Arts Coordinator Dee Dee Oliver at deedee@wilsonarts.com.
Wilson Arts Exhibition, Gallery Shop, and Instructor Proposals
We often have requests from those interested in teaching a class, having work in the Gallery Gift Shop, or exhibiting work in the Truist Event Gallery. If that’s you, please utilize these forms.
If you have additional questions, please reach out to Visual Arts Coordinator Dee Dee Oliver at deedee@wilsonarts.com