Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competiton

 Through the cooperation of the Polk Museum of Art, the City of Winter Haven, the Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, and Main Street Winter Haven, the Seventh Annual Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition was unveiled on April 5, 2007.

Nationally recognized artists from all over the country submitted their works and the top ten pieces were installed in Central Park where they will remain until February 2008 when removed to make room for the winners of next year's competition.

As part of the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition four artists were awarded prizes.  First place was Doug Makemson's sculpture Guarding; second place was awarded to Henry Richardson for his sculpture Healing the World , and third place was the sculpture Columns, created by Michael Chiarello.  Perhaps the most coveted award is the People's Choice Award which is determined entirely by the community at large and represents mass appreciation of the artist's efforts.  After all votes were in Doug Makemson's Guarding was the official winner. 

In particular, a special appreciation and acknowledgement to the following businesses for sponsoring the Central Park Stroll:  Andy Thornal Expedition Outfitter; Clark/Nikdel/Powell Design & Advertising; Food Partners; Greater Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce and Winter Haven Chamber Foundation; Main Street Winter Haven Benefactors; Peterson & Myers, P.A.; Publix Super Markets; Raley Downtown Properties; Richard's Fine Coffees; and Tampa Electric.  

For more information about the Seventh Annual Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition, call the Polk Museum of Art at 863-688-7743.

All Photos By Tony Trotti