Whirligig Festival Build Your Own Whirligig Contest
Entry Deadline: Friday, October 25, 2024
Event Dates: 11/2/24 – 11/3/24
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.
This year, 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! There are three categories to enter: professionals/artists, amateurs, and kids. Judging will take place on Saturday at the festival, with cash prizes awarded to the most impressive creations. Preregistration is required
Whirligig Festival Chalk Art Contest
Entry Deadline: Friday, October 25, 2024
Event Dates: 11/2/24 – 11/3/24
Back by popular demand, the Sidewalk Chalk Art competition is now in its 6th year! This fan-favorite event has continued to grow, with more participants each year pushing the boundaries of creativity. And this year, we’re adding an exciting twist: a 3D design category!
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 several categories, including kids, adults, professional artists, and 3D.
Entry is free, but pre-registration is required. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your talent and add your masterpiece to the colorful canvas of the festival! All materials will be provided – just bring your imagination!
Whirligig Festival Photo Contest
Entry Deadline: Friday, October 25, 2024
Event Dates: 11/2/24 – 11/3/24
We are excited to announce our 2024 Whirligig Festival photo competition! 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. Whirligig photo entries should be uploaded for submission no later than October 25, 2024.
You may submit up to 3 photos to be selected for the in person judging during the weekend of the Whirligig Festival November 2 & 3, 2024.
Selected photos should be delivered for display to the Wilson Arts Center, 204 Nash Street S. no later than Tuesday, October 29 by 5pm.
All photos will remain on display throughout the entire festival weekend.
Entry is free, but pre-registration is required. Use the form linked to the button below to register.
Apply to be a Holiday Invitational Artist
Every November, the Truist Event Gallery transforms into a holiday market filled with handmade gifts and artisan goods! We invite local and regional artists to apply to be one of our Holiday Invitational artists. See the important dates and link to apply below. If you have further questions, please reach out to Dee Dee Oliver, Visual Arts Coordinator, at deedee@wilsonarts.com
IMPORTANT DATES:
Deadline to submit work for consideration: Extended to Saturday, October 5
Artists will be notified by email of accepted works: Saturday, October 12
Completed inventory documentation must be emailed to deedee@wilsonarts.com by Sunday, October 20
Artwork delivery: Tuesday, November 5 between 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Show timeline: November 14 – December 21, 2024
Inventory pickup: TBA
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