Octopus made from recycling materials.
EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP – Local libraries are partnering with the Atlantic County Utilities Authority to encourage people to create unique pieces of art using materials that would normally be discarded. Entries for the eighth annual ACUA Recycled Art Contest will be accepted at many Atlantic County library branches through Oct. 29.
“The contest’s goal is to heighten awareness about the waste we generate and to get people thinking about recycling, reuse, waste and litter reduction,” ACUA President Rick Dovey said in a release. “It’s been great to see this annual event continue to grow. We’re very pleased to include several new libraries this year, which will make it easier for Atlantic County residents to participate.”
In addition to Atlantic County Library System branches (Absecon, Brigantine, Egg Harbor City, Egg Harbor and Galloway townships, Hammonton, Mays Landing, Pleasantville, Somers Point and Ventnor), Atlantic County residents now have the opportunity to drop artwork off at the Linwood Public Library and the Otto Bruyns Library in Northfield. In addition, entries may also be submitted to the Richard E. Bjork Library at Stockton University’s Galloway Township Campus as well as Atlantic Cape Community College libraries in Mays Landing and Atlantic City.
The contest is open to all residents of Atlantic County, and winners will be chosen in four age categories: 8 and under, 9-13, 14-18 and 19 and up, as well as a group category for work completed by more than one person.
Entry forms and artwork must be received anytime before Oct. 29 at any of the participating librarie, selected artwork from each branch will be moved to ACUA where the artworks will be judged and exhibited. Artwork will be on display and awards will be presented to winners during the ACUA’s annual America Recycles Day celebration on Saturday, Nov. 19.
“The help and support from library staff and management makes this contest possible. With their assistance, we’re able to offer a convenient location for people to submit their art, and an opportunity for friends and neighbors to visit their local library to see the art on display during the month of October before the pieces are on exhibit at ACUA’s America Recycles Day event in November,” Dovey said. “Our celebration on Nov. 19 will showcase the skill and creativity of the participants while raising awareness about recycling and the waste that we produce.”
The contest rules and entry can also be found online at www.acua.com/artcontest. Questions or comments can also be emailed to ar@acua.com or answered by calling 609-272-6950.
Information on ACUA’s America Recycles Day event can be found online at www.acua.com/ard. The event features fun and information for all ages. In addition to recycled artwork, this free outdoor event includes Touch-A-Truck, recycling games, activities, crafts and much more. The event will be held 1-4 p.m. at ACUA’s Environmental Park, 6700 Delilah Road, Egg Harbor Township. Rain Date, Sunday, Nov. 20.
