Sea creatures take Geneva snow sculpting prize
Creativity reigned at Geneva’s third annual Sno Sculpting exhibition Jan. 19-22. Below zero temperatures did not deter dedicated artists from completing their frozen masterpieces.
Three student teams and four adult teams toiled from Thursday to Saturday morning in the parking lot of Geneva Commons.
On Jan. 22, a steady stream of visitors admired the sculptures and voted for their favorite in the people’s choice award.
“It was another successful year with over 300 people out to vote,” said event chair Jan Ostler. “I think the cold kept the public away on the first few days, but Saturday they were out to see those final snow creations.”
Taking first place in the student category was the Mad Sculptors team from Batavia High School for its Mermaid creation. Led by art instructor Dawn Zalkus and team captain Ellyn Theis, the team also included Jon Seagren, Eleana Daniel, Bekah Gustin, Rose Allen, Leslie Billing, Kent Williams, Kesley Fagan, Cecelia Romanotto and Jamie Fee.
“My students and I were grateful to be given such a unique opportunity to highlight their artistic skill,” Zalkus said. “This was the most challenging year due to the brutal cold, and I am very proud of my students and how they rallied together to pull off a successful sculpture.”
Second place in the student category went to Vandelicious Sculptures from Kaneland High School for its Octopus. Art instructor is Emili VanDelinder. Team captain was Sarah Morgan, with team Krysra Knarr, Heather Clark, Melissa Mollahan and Mara Hernandez.
Taking first place in the adult category was “Two Seahorses and a Shell” by Joe Gagnepain, Ashley Zamp and Heidi Kinder.
Taking second place in the adult category was “Toad Ums” by Ben O’Brien.
Unpredictable weather is usually part of the package, Ostler said. Last year, temperatures warmed up on the final day of the competition, melting the sculptures shortly after they were created. This year, temperatures remained below zero, making conditions ideal for sculpting, but presenting challenges for the artists.
“The weather was some of the coldest I have worked in,” Joe Gagnepain said. “I was so impressed by the diligence and talent of the high school students. No one complained about the cold. They were singing and laughing the whole time they worked. I admire their attitudes.”
The Sno Sculpting event is a great educational opportunity for young and old, Ostler noted. Many families attended, taking pictures of the completed sculptures and talking to the artists about their technique.
“The best part of the event is that it brings together local artists to entertain and amaze the community,” Ostler said. “The community needs a fun family event in winter.”