PAINTING THE PARK. “Irvine Park Revisited – The Duck Pond” is one of a series of seven oil paintings of Irvine Park in artist Jean Arneson's hometown of Chippewa Falls. The Chippewa Valley provides the perfect canvas for her original oil paintings and drawings, creating unique and personal memories. Now, you can create some artwork of your own! 

Calling all Chippewa Valley artists, young and old: Soak up some inspiration through a new collaboration between the Heyde Center for the Arts and the City of Chippewa Falls' Parks, Recreation, and Forestry.

This new contest, dubbed "Celebrating Irvine Park through Art," encourages local artists to visit Irvine Park and let its history, nature, and splendor inspire new artistry, according to a media release. 

Beginning Aug. 1 through Dec. 31, artists can take advantage of the inspiration offered by Irvine Park throughout its changing seasons to paint, sculpt, and sketch whatever they're inspired to create. Then, from Sept. 1, 2021 through Jan. 14, 2022, artists are encouraged to submit their work for a chance to win a prize. 

Individuals of all ages are encouraged to create and submit up to two works of art that are created within Irvine Park and are 100% original.

Along with the artwork, you'll have to provide picture proof that the art was created within Irvine Park, so don't forget to snap an in-progress photo with the artist and the art! 

“I am super excited about all of this," said John Jimenez, director of parks, recreation, and forestry for the City of Chippewa Falls in a press release. "It is a way to get people into the park and for visitors to see artists in action."

Prizes vary by age group, but all artists will be qualified to exhibit their art at the Heyde Center for the Arts from Feb. 23, 2022 to March 9, 2022. The top five pieces of art will receive a prize, with a people's choice award.

(We'll give you a sneak peek of one of the prizes: first-place prize for artists aged 12 and under is a behind-the-scenes tour of Irvine Park Zoo! You read that right! It's like Madagascar come to life!) 

Explore the zoo, cave, historical structures, or the natural areas of Irvine Park and allow its natural wonders to inspire new works of art.

Further details, along with the entry form, is available on Heyde Center for the Arts' website. Get out there and get inspired!