Benches And Picnic Tables To Become ‘Art’ For Elgin Q125

Elgin’s Young ‘N Lively (YNL) club, in conjunction with the City of Elgin, is inviting groups, businesses and individuals in the community to “express themselves” for the Elgin Q125 celebration this June. The YNL will be hosting a park bench and picnic table decorating contest beginning now until approximately June 6th. The city has identified thirteen benches and sixteen picnic tables that they will donate towards the contest. According to YNL member and committee chair Bethany Miller, there are few limitations of what can be done to the benches and tables.
“They can modify them and paint them however they like”, said Miller. Aside from ensuring that the benches and/or tables are suitable for public viewing, there are no restrictions on the theme that can be submitted.
“We plan on having all of the finished benches and tables downtown and on public property for people to enjoy during the Q125 celebration,” Miller added. The hope is that the majority of these will stay in public view long after the celebration.
Businesses, individuals and groups (school groups, 4-H clubs, civic organizations & more) can contact Miller at 402-992-1532 on where to pick up their bench and/or table. She will have a list of suggestions on how the benches should be prepped to help their piece of art last as long as possible. Members of the YNL will be applying a topcoat of an outdoor weather sealant to help preserve the artwork.
The YNL group will judge the pieces submitted. They will be awarding a first place in the following categories: Business, Individual, Youth, Civic Groups. The winners will receive a cash-value award and they can keep their winning piece and place it where they choose to have it displayed.