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 eighth annual Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition was unveiled on April 10, 2008.

Nationally recognized artists from all over the country submitted their works and the top ten were installed in Central Park where they will remain until February 2009 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.  Best of Show was Winter Haven’s own Albert Kriston for his sculpture Reach; second place was awarded to Rob Lorenson for Red Lion; and Honorable Mention was the sculpture Steppin’ Out by Dennis Howland.  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 tallied Albert Kriston’s Reach was the official winner.

We encourage everyone to take a walk through Central Park and admire the ten new sculptures, and while you’re downtown eat in one of our fabulous restaurants and shop in one of our many gift stores.

In particular, a special appreciation and acknowledgement to the sponsors, listed by the respective sculpture: