Young Artists at Paddlefest 2010

Guest blogger Traci Mans, Program Manager – Strategic Initiatives, went to Paddlefest 2010

Imagine eating lunch under the belly of a giant transparent spider; thoughtfully chewing while being serenaded with the random melodies of a vibraphone, your space illuminated with a plastic bottle chandelier. This is the exciting scene people from all over shared when they went to Coney Island for Paddlefest on June 24th.

The plastic bottle spider!

Under the pavilion near the Ohio River, young artists showcased their works of art with the Found Art Contest. 

One of the artists with a birdhouse made of cans

Making sculptures almost entirely of recycled or “found” materials, young people experienced the arts in a thrilling new way, and helped to highlight Paddlefest’s goal: celebrate, promote, and protect the beauty of our Ohio River. Their sculptures – clustered together in a showcase of colors, textures, and sizes – created a vibrant display for everyone at Coney.


Guest Judge Leslie Maloney and friends!

Guest judges LeBraun Colvin of Studio Endure, Leslie Maloney of the Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation, and Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Mary Ronan, observed, studied, considered, and determined prizes, including “Most Exciting” and “Best Use of Color.


Actual paddles for our Golden Paddle Recipients, made by local wood-working artist, Paul Woodrich

This scene of young artists’ adventures in creativity and discussing their ideas is just one of many wonderful examples of how art brings people together to share experiences and talk about community issues.


Quebec Heights: Recipients of the “Most Innovative” Award