
The Pasadena Public Library has opened the entry period for its “Read, Rinse, Repeat Summer Reading Art Contest” for 2024 and is calling on local youth to transform trash into art. The competition, open to children aged 8-12 and teens aged 13-18, challenges participants to create original 3-D sculptures using recycled materials.
Contestants must live or attend school in Pasadena to be eligible for the contest. The library stipulates that entries should primarily use recycled items such as plastic bottles, empty tin cans, or old scrap paper, with other media like paint and clay allowed as supplements.
Submissions can be either standing sculptures with sturdy cardboard bases or wall hangings mounted on cardboard or foam board. The library has set size restrictions, stating that pieces should range from 9″ x 12″ to 25″ x 35″.
The deadline for entries is Friday, July 20, with participants required to submit their creations to any Pasadena Public Library branch. An entry form must accompany each submission, and the library will assign numbers to ensure anonymous judging.
Judges will evaluate entries based on creativity, use of materials, function, and overall execution. The contest features two categories: “Best Functional Design” and “Best Use of Materials,” with prizes awarded for first, second, and third place in each age group.
Winners will receive a bag of art supplies, a gift card to Remainders Creative Reuse store in Pasadena, and recognition in the library’s Off the Shelf Newsletter and the Kids or Teens Blog. The library plans to announce winners and honorable mentions at the Summer Reading Finale on July 29 and display entries at Jefferson Branch Library through Aug. 26.
The contest aims to promote environmental awareness alongside artistic expression. By encouraging the use of recyclable materials, the library hopes to inspire young artists to consider sustainability in their creative processes. The theme for the 2024 contest is “Trash to Art.”
To access the entry form and for full contest details, visit https://bit.ly/3KYPaXQ.
Original artwork will be returned to the artists after the display period ends on Aug. 26.