There’s something about spring on Bowen that makes the artist in us come alive. Although winter is perfect for “woodshedding” (to borrow a music term) — hunkering down and perfecting an artistic skill — the colours that reveal themselves after a long, cold season crave to be echoed in the works of artists, and we feel the call.
Now it’s officially summer, and galleries also open up for longer tourist hours, and communities come together for group art shows and lessons, like the recent Community School Association Youth Art Show, which was filled to the brim with colourful creations. With this seasonal “urge to art”, the Bowen Island Public Library has joined in, offering another creative outlet for the artsy among us.
The “Design a Kids’ Library Card Contest” is a chance for all Bowen Island artists, both aspiring and professional, to make a mark on Bowen culture, and encourage children’s literacy through art. Designs are already coming in, and even more are out there being created as we speak.
Three different designs will be chosen to become limited edition children’s library cards, picked from different age categories, so both young and seasoned artists can compete, without competing against each other. All age and skill levels are encouraged to submit to this, whether you’re a pro graphic illustrator, a hobbyist practicing your design chops, or a newbie who’s only picked up a paintbrush this week.
The public can create and submit their designs on one of our sturdy card stock application packages, available for pickup at the library. Alternately, folks can print the 2-page package out from the library website. We will also accept designs on canvas or other supports, and digital designs are also welcome, as long as the file is printed for submission; either must be handed in with our agreement form, and must fit the card’s size ratio (3.375 x 2.125 inches). Head to bit.ly/kidscard for more information.
Before the midsummer heat drives you out of your studio and into your hammock, get inspired to create something for the kids, to make their book check-outs a little more fun. The contest deadline is July 31, with the three winning designs announced in late August.
